Ah, those frisky Washington lobbyists. They'll float any rumors to further their ends, won't they? In Christopher Buckley's latest political satire, They Eat Puppies, Don't They? (#325), the failure of a Senate Select Committee to authorize the purchase of a super-sized drone by one of America's largest defense contractors leads to a war of words on China. They need the leverage of public anti-Chinese feelings to change the Committee's decision in favor of their multi-billion dollar contract. (But if some of the characters involved have their way, there might actually be some real fighting!)
As absurd as some of the situations are in They Eat Puppies, Don't They? I still seemed to hear Dave Barry whispering over my shoulder as I was reading "They are not making this up!" And if you've ever watched any of the numerous political talk shows on TV, regardless of their persuasion, you'll soon be chanting that mantra, as well. And speaking of mantras, one of major plot points involves assassinating the Dalai Lama. The only question is, which side will succeed first? The Americans or the Chinese? Or will the Dalai Lama have the last laugh and die a natural death? Not if it can be helped by either side if they can play it to their own advantage.
Looking for a little truthiness served up with your politics? Mr. Buckley's book should provide you with a generous sampling*.
* Puppies not included.
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