Politics and literature

“Rule number two is, Never be specific. Never commit yourself to any
definite plan or act, since you have no control over the future and might
not be able to fulfill your promises. Thus, talk in generalities. Say
you’re going to make things better—but never say just how. Always point out
what’s wrong with the forest: but don’t think you have to say what you
would do to amend it. For instance, if the subject of a year round water
supply should come up—and I can assure you that the eagle will bring it
up—you can merely reply that you agree wholeheartedly with that proposal
and that, as President, you will do your utmost to ensure that the project
is initiated and completed. You might want to throw a sop to the boars,
rabbits, deer, and whatever other species happens to be in your audience by
mentioning how their skill, enterprise, and love of forest will overcome
any obstacles. Get the idea? In short, put on a bright happy face, speak
enthusiastically, sprinkle your speech with compliments to whoever is
listening to you, and give assurances of better days!"

--campaign advice from the snake to the ass

"The Polity of Beasts"

(Politics as you KNOW it is ...)