Category: Relationship

This compilation of articles from “The Let’s Play Ball Blog” explores a range of topics from American politics and the perceived state of the current government to personal reflections on writing, relationships, and past experiences. Several pieces critique President Trump’s actions and character, often comparing them to fictional villains or dictators. Interspersed are discussions of book reviews, animated shorts, and even baseball, sometimes drawing parallels between these seemingly disparate subjects and the political climate. The collection also touches upon issues of social media trends, online scams, and historical figures, creating a diverse but interconnected commentary on contemporary life and its challenges.

The Let’s Play Ball Blog

An Examination of Trump’s Political Behavior

Drawing on the sources, Donald Trump’s political behavior is described in several ways. He is characterized as having a “wacko turn” in his first term, demonstrating “mind-numbing stupidity” and appearing to slip into “full-fledged insanity”. In “fits of pique,” he seems determined to destroy anything that threatens his “fragile ego”. This behavior is seen as potentially leading to a counter-revolution.

Trump is portrayed as acting as if the United States is his personal “kingdom”. Every policy decision is measured by its capacity to benefit him and his “fellow oligarchs” personally. He has successfully sold his world view to many people. Roughly half the population reportedly sees him as a “wise, all-powerful, all-knowing leader,” while the other half views him as a “lying, sociopathic jackass”. He is also called a “sociopath like Donald Trump” who is “on the first go-round”. He is described as a “lifelong con artist and sociopath with Fascist tendencies”.

According to the sources, Trump ignores the constitution and the rule of law. He is said to recognize that courts lack the “armies” needed to enforce edicts. He seems to believe he can eliminate federal employees via executive order. His plans reportedly include a “post-constitution” government, dismantling the administrative state, and establishing a Christian theocracy. His allies are noted to have put out “actual blueprints” for these plans. His attempt to overthrow the 2024 election result and incite his followers is aimed at achieving “legitimate” re-election. The sources suggest that the Supreme Court could ensure he has the powers of a King if re-elected.

Trump is depicted as a “showman rather than a politician” with no real interest in governing, primarily seeking to provide shockwaves and headlines. He is described as being the “center of his own universe” and someone who “simply doesn’t understand things, or more accurately, doesn’t care”. He is said to have declared war on his initial “enemies,” such as Jack Smith and Anthony Fauci, and seeks revenge. He appears to believe he is exceptional and a “great sovereign”. Anyone who fails to “worship” him may be in his sights. His actions are seen as contributing to the country being in danger.

Other characteristics attributed to Trump in the sources include being compared to a “deposed dictator” and being called the “Trumpian model” of dictators. While described as an “idiot” by some, some Republicans reportedly respect him for political gain. His policy ideas, such as those concerning foreign aid, imports, and allies, are not seen as “bright”. He hasn’t learned basic economic and geopolitical facts despite being President. He also doesn’t seem to have learned from his mistakes.

Trump’s behavior is linked to causing deaths through insurrection and the pandemic. He is also predicted to cause more deaths by shutting down government services and medical research. He is portrayed as one of those who are “crying, screaming, or smashing heads together” over progressive plans. His campaign is said to use “guilt trips”. He is called the “real criminal-in-chief” and compared to a villain who gets away with actions and is “covered in glory”.

His public persona includes being described as having “whiney childishness” which allows him to be written off as a comic character, although he is also called “dead serious”. He appeals to some viscerally rather than intellectually, especially in Republican-dominated states. His plainsspokenness and lack of intellectualism are noted. His slogan, “Make America Great Again,” is interpreted as harkening back to an era where white males were completely in charge, with voters embracing it showing racism and sexism. His efforts to damage the constitution and democracy are viewed by the author as “entertaining, like watching an Evil Empire-like team cheat continually”. The prospect of his dictatorship is seen as looming over the United States, with a fifty-fifty chance of taking hold by 2025.

Blog’s Books Discussed and Reviewed

Drawing on the sources, “Book reviews” is listed as a category for several posts on the blog. While this indicates that book reviews are a topic covered, the content within these and other posts often involves discussions or summaries of specific books rather than a detailed analysis of the review process itself.

The sources mention and discuss several books:

• The author reviewed Lesley-Ann Jones’s The Search for John Lennon in 2021.
• Elliott Mintz’s memoir is also discussed in the context of John and Yoko Ono.
• George Orwell’s work, specifically focusing on the relationship between Winston and Julia, is interpreted as a “love story” turning hateful in a totalitarian state. The sources discuss their betrayal and fate within the context of the story.

The author also discusses their own novels:

• Secretarial Wars (noted with publication years 2003 and 2007) is described as “chick-lit” and features Miriam, the first heroine in the author’s work to confront a potential dictatorship. Miriam works at the Peace Council. The author describes it as a nostalgic tale reflecting their young-adult life. It is also mentioned as quasi-government.
• The Rock Star’s Homecoming (2007) is also categorized as “chick-lit” and a nostalgic tale reflecting the author’s young-adult life. It is set on a small-town college campus.
• Let’s Play Ball (2010) is discussed, noting it is followed by the sequel Gilded Prisons. It features Jeremiah Smith. Miriam is involved, and the story includes a kidnapping caper and themes of anti-government activism.
• Gilded Prisons (2021) is the sequel to Let’s Play Ball. It features Deirdre Smith Gordon and continues the kidnapping caper and themes of anti-government activism.
• Handmaidens of Rock (2014) is mentioned as demonstrating that life doesn’t often go smoothly for “groupies”.

In summary, the blog uses “Book reviews” as a category tag and discusses the content and themes of various books, including non-fiction works and several of the author’s own fiction novels, some described as “chick-lit” with political themes.

Deception: Online Scams and Political Con Artistry

Drawing on the sources, scam awareness is discussed in various contexts, highlighting both personal experiences with online deception and broader concerns about misinformation and political behavior that can be seen as a form of con artistry.

The author details personal encounters with online scams. These include receiving a high volume of spam messages that required “immediate attention”, experiencing a convincing phishing attempt using a fake Amazon logo that led to providing credit card and banking data, which the author fell for despite the “minimal English” being a “tipoff”. Another detailed example involves a Facebook friend promoting a supposed government grant program from the EPA and HHS, which the author initially engaged with by clicking a link and filling out forms. Despite the friend’s insistence that it was “legit” and involved “promised money with no sweat,” the author, having prior government experience, knew that grants typically target specific projects. Checking the HHS website confirmed that scam warnings matching the description had been posted for the past year, indicating the Facebook friend’s account had been hijacked. The author also mentions receiving “garbled messages” and having difficulty unsubscribing from “right-wing newsletters”. Through these experiences, the author notes becoming “better at spotting these tricks” and concludes that scams are perpetrated by individuals who are “clever and sometimes successful,” not just “crazies”, stressing the need to be on guard against online dangers.

Beyond personal online scams, the sources connect a lack of awareness or gullibility to the spread of misinformation and political deception. Websites described as “Online Fantasylands” reportedly report “sheer fantasy” to gain clicks, lacking “facts” but offering freedom from restraint. These sites, sometimes featuring “fake newsmongers”, are speculated to originate from places like Russia or Vietnam, designed to “test the gullibility of the American public and sow discord”. The sources suggest there is “ample proof that no ‘news’ is too far out for a large contingent of people to believe”, linking this susceptibility to welcoming Donald Trump back to the White House.

Donald Trump’s political behavior is repeatedly framed in terms of deception and being a “con artist”. He is called a “lifelong con artist and sociopath with Fascist tendencies” and a “pig in his personal life, a con artist in business, and a pathological liar”. His efforts to “trash the constitution and democracy” are described as potentially “entertaining, like watching an Evil Empire-like team cheat continually”. He is also compared to a villain who gets away with actions like “stealing classified documents, cheating in business, or any other crime already committed”. Even his claims about “shocking levels of incompetence and probable fraud” in Social Security are mentioned in the context of his political “riff”. The sources imply that recognizing and being aware of these behaviors is crucial. While some may respect him for political gain, the author suggests that his “whiney childishness” might lead some to dismiss him as a “comic character,” but he is “dead serious” in his actions. The sources note that many lawmakers who support Trump’s lies are not necessarily unintelligent, suggesting a deliberate choice to spread misinformation.

Furthermore, a literary example of deception is mentioned in the discussion of George Orwell’s work, where Julia is described as “duplicitous” and luring Winston into a trap set by the Thought Police through a seemingly personal act, illustrating a betrayal within a totalitarian state.

In summary, the sources highlight the importance of scam awareness not only in protecting oneself from online financial schemes but also in critically evaluating the information consumed and recognizing deceptive behavior in the political sphere, where figures are described as con artists and liars who exploit public gullibility and spread “fake news”.

Satire and Trump in Fiction

Based on the sources provided, the term “political satire” is not explicitly used. However, the author’s discussion of political figures and events, particularly concerning Donald Trump, employs language and perspectives that align with or lend themselves to satirical interpretation.

The author describes Donald Trump’s political behavior in highly critical and often exaggerated terms. He is characterized as having a “wacko turn”, demonstrating “mind-numbing stupidity”, and appearing to slip into “full-fledged insanity”. He is also called a “lying, sociopathic jackass” and a “lifelong con artist and sociopath with Fascist tendencies”. These descriptions, along with the portrayal of his actions as driven by a “fragile ego” or measured only by their benefit to him and “his fellow oligarchs”, create a picture that could be fertile ground for satire through exaggeration and ridicule of perceived flaws and motivations.

The author notes Trump’s “whiney childishness” which could lead some to write him off as a “comic character,” although the author emphasizes he is “dead serious”. This observation points to a public persona that some might find inherently absurd or comedic, another common element in satire.

Furthermore, the sources indicate that the author writes fiction, including novels described as “chick-lit”, which often contain political themes. For example, Secretarial Wars features a heroine who confronts a potential dictatorship and Let’s Play Ball and its sequel Gilded Prisons involve themes of anti-government activism and a political dynasty. Fiction can serve as a powerful vehicle for political commentary, allowing authors to use characters, plotlines, and exaggerated scenarios to critique real-world politics, which is a key function of political satire. The author explicitly states they tried to alter reality in their fiction with “suggestions of long-range outcomes”, indicating a willingness to use fictional narratives to explore political possibilities.

The author’s perspective on Trump’s efforts to “trash the constitution and democracy” as potentially “entertaining, like watching an Evil Empire-like team cheat continually” suggests viewing political events through a lens that compares them to a fictional, dramatic conflict, which is a perspective that could underpin satirical commentary. The discussion of “Online Fantasylands” that report “sheer fantasy” and “fake news” to exploit public gullibility also touches on themes of misinformation and credulity that are frequently targets of political satire.

While the sources do not use the specific term “political satire,” the critical, often mocking, and sometimes exaggerated language used to describe political figures, the use of fiction to explore political themes, and the comparison of political events to fictional conflicts all suggest an approach that is closely related to or could incorporate elements of political satire.

Author’s Personal Reflections

Based on the sources and our conversation, personal reflections are evident throughout the content, covering the author’s experiences, feelings, creative process, and perspectives on various topics.

Reflections on Writing and Fiction

The author frequently reflects on their own work. They describe their novels Secretarial Wars (2003, 2007) and The Rock Star’s Homecoming (2007) as “nostalgic tales that reflect my true young-adult life”. They categorize their novels, including Secretarial Wars, The Rock Star’s Homecoming, Let’s Play Ball (2010), and Gilded Prisons (2021), as “chick-lit,” noting that they often feature political themes and sometimes international intrigue. The author reflects on using fiction to “alter reality” and offer “suggestions of long-range outcomes”. They mention attempting a science fiction novel, Budget Analyst In Space, as a way to “keep writing muscles from atrophying” and admit it was their “first attempt at science fiction”. They also reflect on the cover art and formatting process for that book. The author reflects on the lack of traditional romance in their novels, stating, “I seem unable to promise my heroines the “happily-ever-after” lives they aspire to, and believe they deserve”. This reflects their personal perspective that life, or at least their own experience, doesn’t always align with romantic ideals. They note that even in Handmaidens of Rock (2014), they “tried to demonstrate that life doesn’t often go smoothly for ‘groupies’”.

Reflections on Online Scam Experiences

The author shares personal experiences with online scams as a way to raise awareness. They mention receiving many spam messages requiring “immediate attention”. They detail a specific incident where they “fell for” a convincing phishing attempt using a fake Amazon logo and provided sensitive financial information. They reflect on the “minimal English” in the scam message as a “tipoff” they missed at the time. Another significant personal reflection involves a Facebook friend promoting a grant program. The author reflects on their prior government experience and knowledge of how grants typically work, which raised suspicion about the “promised money with no sweat”. They personally visited the HHS website to verify, finding warnings about the scam. These experiences led them to the personal conclusion that they have become “better at spotting these tricks”. They also reflect that scams are perpetrated by “clever and sometimes successful” individuals, not just “crazies,” highlighting the pervasive nature of online dangers.

Reflections on Political Views and Feelings

Much of the content involves the author’s strong personal reflections on the political climate, particularly concerning Donald Trump. They describe his behavior with terms like “wacko turn,” “mind-numbing stupidity,” and slipping into “full-fledged insanity”. They call him a “lying, sociopathic jackass”, a “lifelong con artist and sociopath with Fascist tendencies”, and a “pathological liar”. These strong adjectives reflect deep personal conviction and frustration. The author reflects on his actions as being driven by a “fragile ego” and measured only by benefit to himself and “his fellow oligarchs”. They express hope that he won’t serve a second term, though acknowledging the potential cost. The author also reflects on others viewing Trump’s “whiney childishness” as making him a “comic character,” but personally emphasizes that he is “dead serious”. They reflect on the difficulty of finding anything to admire about Trump. The author contrasts Trump’s political style with others they have admired, like Liz Cheney, whom they have “total admiration” for due to her “impeccable conservative credentials” and loyalty to the constitution. They also reflect on finding some admirable qualities in past presidents like Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, despite disagreeing with their policies. The author personally reflects on the state of democracy, feeling that “democracy in the USA hangs in the balance”. They question the reasons for supporting Trump, suggesting it might stem from a lack of intelligence or education among some lawmakers. The author also reflects on the potential for political events to be “entertaining, like watching an Evil Empire-like team cheat continually”, suggesting a personal lens of viewing politics through dramatic or even fictional parallels.

Reflections on Work Experiences

The author mentions their work history influencing their fiction. They reflect on working in “quasi-government” and mention summer jobs at the State Department and Treasury Department during college. These experiences seem to have informed their portrayal of professional settings and characters like Miriam in Secretarial Wars, who works at the Peace Council, described as quasi-government. They specifically mention reflecting on “bad bosses” from their professional life, which informed their portrayal of similar characters in their novels.

Reflections on Relationships and Personal Life

The author touches upon personal relationship experiences that influenced their writing. They mention a “short marriage with my college sweetheart” and a “long friendship (with benefits) ensued, which has endured through his subsequent marriages”. These experiences, or lack thereof, seem to shape their view on portraying romance in their fiction. They also mention their relationship with John and Yoko Ono in the context of reviewing Elliott Mintz’s memoir, reflecting on “what I gave up for John and Yoko” and “what I received in return,” and whether making a different choice would have led to a different life.

Reflections on Overcoming Difficulties and Personal Growth

While discussing Kathleen Hanna, the author reflects on her journey, noting her “many abusive relationships” and challenges. The author highlights Hanna’s ability to find a “way to stop this vicious cycle” by creating a “list of positive ways I could celebrate my next achievement”. This seems to be a personal reflection on coping mechanisms and finding positive outcomes. The author also mentions their own reflections on fantasizing about vengeance against perceived “enemies” and venting anger through writing.

Historical and Philosophical Reflections

The author includes personal reflections on historical and philosophical topics. They mention reflecting on the founding fathers and the history of the United States as a “great drama”. They discuss their fascination with figures like Johannes Kepler and Carl Sagan, reflecting on the historical pursuit of truth and understanding the cosmos. They personally relate Kepler’s disappointment with flawed models to the idea of wishing thinking leading people to support figures like Donald Trump.

Blog Posts on Politics and Culture

Study Guide: “The Let’s Play Ball Blog”

Quiz

1. According to the blog post “Fantasy Government,” what is the primary driver of policy decisions for President Trump?
2. What is the author’s proposed “best gambit” for those on the “jackass” side, as mentioned in “Fantasy Government”?
3. In “The Tipping Point,” what event does the author identify as the acknowledged tipping point for potential civil war?
4. What is the primary subject of the blog post “Yet Another Take On John And Yoko”?
5. What is the key criticism the author has of the second half of the novel discussed in the excerpt starting on page 4/92?
6. What is the author’s main point in the blog post “No Time For Cowards” regarding the election of a particular president?
7. In “Online Fantasylands,” the author discusses fake news sites. What is one characteristic mentioned about these sites’ origin or intent?
8. What personal experience does the author share in “We’re Complicated, JD” that relates to offering help to someone experiencing depression?
9. According to the blog post “Politics As A Game,” what does the author suggest as a way to view politics more easily?
10. What is a key piece of advice the author gives regarding scam emails in “Scam City”?

Essay Questions

1. Analyze the recurring themes of political commentary and personal reflection throughout the provided excerpts from “The Let’s Play Ball Blog.” How does the author weave together these seemingly disparate topics?
2. Discuss the author’s perspective on the role of media and information in contemporary society, as presented in the excerpts. How does the author distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources?
3. Examine the author’s criticisms of political figures and systems within the provided text. What specific behaviors or policies are targeted, and what is the author’s underlying argument?
4. Evaluate the author’s portrayal of female characters in the excerpts, particularly in the context of the book reviews. What insights are offered into the challenges and experiences of these characters?
5. Discuss the author’s use of personal anecdotes and experiences to support broader points about society and politics. How effective is this approach in engaging the reader and conveying the author’s perspective?

Glossary of Key Terms

Chickreads: Likely a colloquial term used by the author, potentially referring to the target audience or the general tone of the blog posts. Based on the context, it suggests content that is accessible and possibly geared towards a wider or less academic readership.

Fantasy Government: A term used by the author to describe a political administration that operates based on self-interest and ego rather than reality or established norms.

En Masse: A French phrase meaning “in a mass,” “in a body,” or “all together.” In the context of the blog, it is used to suggest a collective action or decision by a group of people.

Neocon: A shortened term for “neoconservative,” a political ideology characterized by a focus on promoting democracy and interventionism in foreign policy. The author uses it dismissively.

Oligarchs: A small group of people who control a country or organization. In the context of the blog, it refers to wealthy individuals who benefit personally from government policies.

Sociopathic Jackass: A derogatory term used by the author to describe a political figure who is perceived as lacking empathy and behaving in a self-serving and destructive manner.

The Tipping Point: A term used to describe the point at which a series of small changes becomes significant enough to cause a larger, more important change. In the blog, it refers to a potential turning point towards civil unrest.

Project 2025: A documented plan by a group envisioning an alternative government structure if a specific political figure were to be re-elected. The author views this plan negatively.

Antiwar Movement: A social movement that opposes war, usually government decisions to initiate or carry out a war. The author refers to the movement during the Vietnam War.

Establisshment: A term used to describe the dominant group or elite in society, seen as controlling institutions and maintaining the status quo.

Secretarial Wars (2003): A novel mentioned in the blog post, seemingly a political thriller or satire.

The Rock Star’s Homecoming (2007): A novel mentioned in the blog post, likely a coming-of-age story or a romance with a musical theme.

Let’s Play Ball (2010): A novel by the author, described as a mystery involving kidnapping and baseball.

Gilded Prisons (2021): A sequel to Let’s Play Ball, continuing the story and themes of the previous novel.

Handmaidens of Rock (2014): A novel by the author, focused on the experiences of women in the music industry.

Budget Analyst in Space: A novel mentioned in the blog post, seemingly a science fiction story.

COBOL: An ancient computer programming language. The author mentions it in the context of problems with government computer systems, specifically the Social Security Administration.

Chick-lit: A genre of fiction that is primarily aimed at young women, typically focusing on themes of romance and personal growth. The author applies this term to some of her own novels.

Soft-publishing: A term used by the author, likely referring to self-publishing or independent publishing.

Mass Casualty Events: Incidents resulting in a large number of injuries or deaths, often in a medical context.

Survivor’s Guilt: A feeling of guilt experienced by those who survive a traumatic event in which others died.

Colleen Hoover-type Approach: Refers to a style of writing, likely characterized by emotional intensity or specific narrative techniques, associated with the author Colleen Hoover.

Perils of Pauline Cycle: A reference to a serial film from the silent era, known for its cliffhanger endings and the heroine being constantly in danger. The author uses it to describe a pattern of challenges faced by a character.

Antiviral Movement: Likely a typo or misspelling of “Antiwar Movement,” given the context of protests against the Vietnam War.

The Women: A reference to the women’s rights movement or female figures who inspire the author.

Trump-Musk Horror Show: A phrase used by the author to express negativity towards the political and social influence of Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

Hysteria and Exaggeration: Terms used by the author to describe what they perceive as an overreaction or emotional response, particularly in political discourse.

Soros-like influence: A reference to George Soros, a wealthy investor and philanthropist often accused by some political groups of funding liberal causes and influencing elections. The author uses it to suggest external influence on political events.

Flag Day: A U.S. holiday celebrating the adoption of the flag. The author mentions it in a political context.

Dominion: A reference to Dominion Voting Systems, a company involved in the 2020 U.S. election that was subject to false claims of election fraud.

Second Amendment People: Individuals who support the right to bear arms, often associated with conservative political views. The author references this in the context of perceived threats and rhetoric.

Christian Theocracy: A form of government in which priests rule in the name of God or a god. The author uses this term to criticize what they see as a blending of religious and political power.

Wishful Thinking: The formation of beliefs and making decisions according to what might be pleasing to imagine, rather than by appealing to evidence. The author uses this to describe a perceived disconnect from reality.

Fantasy Newsmongers: Individuals or entities that create or spread fake news and fabricated stories.

Fake Children Syndrome: A term used by the author to describe false accusations of child kidnapping or exploitation, often used to spread misinformation and generate outrage.

Platagon Studio software: Software used for creating animated videos.

The Bastille: A fortress in Paris that was stormed during the French Revolution, symbolizing the overthrow of the monarchy. The author uses this historical reference to suggest a potential societal upheaval.

States of Maryland and DC: The author fantasizes about creating a new entity called the “United States of MVD” by combining Maryland and Washington D.C., potentially as a form of political separation or resistance.

KDP reads: Likely refers to Kindle Direct Publishing, Amazon’s platform for independent authors. “KDP reads” would be a measure of how much of a book is read through this platform.

The Nondescripts: A term used to describe a group of students in The Rock Star’s Homecoming who are seen as ordinary or unexceptional, and are the target of social exclusion.

Homecoming Queen: A title traditionally given to a popular female student at a high school or college homecoming event. In the blog, it represents a position of social influence that the “nondescripts” aim to disrupt.

Amazon (in the context of scams): Refers to the online retail giant. The author discusses a scam involving a fake Amazon notification.

UPS: United Parcel Service, a package delivery company. The author mentions a scam involving a check received via UPS.

HHS website: Refers to the website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The author checks this site for scam warnings.

Thought Police: A concept from George Orwell’s novel Nineteen Eighty-Four, representing a secret police force that suppresses independent thought. The author uses this term in a discussion of Orwell’s work.

Sextcrime: A term used in the discussion of Nineteen Eighty-Four, likely referring to sexual acts considered criminal by the oppressive government.

Inner Party: The privileged ruling class in Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four.

Ministry of Love: One of the government ministries in Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four, responsible for torture and re-education.

Washington Nationals: A Major League Baseball team based in Washington, D.C. The author uses the team’s performance as a metaphor for the political climate.

Buzzsaw team: A term used in baseball to describe a team that is playing exceptionally well and dominating their opponents.

Decongestant: Medication used to relieve nasal congestion. The author uses this in a humorous comparison to a political figure’s performance.

Guantanamo: A U.S. military prison in Cuba, known for holding detainees suspected of terrorism. The author uses this location in a sarcastic suggestion about a political figure’s fate.

Davey Martinez: The manager of the Washington Nationals baseball team.

Woke: A term used to describe awareness of social injustices. The author uses it to discuss political correctness and identity politics, often in a critical tone.

Microaggression: Subtle, often unintentional expressions of prejudice or bias. The author mentions this in the context of workplace dynamics and social issues.

Christian Theocracy: A form of government in which priests rule in the name of God or a god. The author uses this term to criticize what they see as a blending of religious and political power.

Joe Biden: The current President of the United States. The author discusses Biden in comparison to Donald Trump.

Mayorkas: Likely refers to Alejandro Mayorkas, the current U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security. The author mentions him in a critical context.

Cosmos: Refers to the universe. The author discusses Johannes Kepler’s fascination with the cosmos.

Johannes Kepler: A German astronomer and mathematician who discovered the laws of planetary motion. The author discusses his life and beliefs.

Platonic solids: Three-dimensional shapes with congruent regular polygonal faces, the same number of faces meeting at each vertex, and all vertices lying on a sphere. Mentioned in the context of Kepler’s theories about the universe.

The Cosmic Mystery: A term used by Kepler to describe his understanding of the universe and its underlying principles.

Miriam: A character in the author’s novel Secretarial Wars.

Maximillian Bailey: A character in the author’s novel Secretarial Wars, presumably a political figure.

Covert War Council: A secretive group involved in strategic planning, likely with a military or political focus.

Jeremiah Smith: A character in the author’s novels Let’s Play Ball and Gilded Prisons.

Manny Chavez: A character in the author’s novel Let’s Play Ball, described as a baseball player.

Jessica: A character in the author’s novel Let’s Play Ball, the fiancée of Manny Chavez.

Deirdre Smith Gordon: A character in the author’s novel Gilded Prisons, the daughter of Jeremiah Smith.

Oval Office: The official office of the President of the United States. The author uses it in a satirical context related to political scandals.

Taylor Swift: A popular American singer-songwriter. The author mentions her in a political context.

Nikki Haley: A Republican politician. The author mentions her in a political context.

Dementia Don: A derogatory nickname used by the author for Donald Trump, suggesting cognitive decline.

Post-constitution government: A term used by the author to describe a potential future government that operates outside the bounds of the U.S. Constitution.

Republican Congressional aides: Staff members who work for Republican members of the U.S. Congress. The author discusses a survey of these aides.

January 6, 2021: The date of the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The author references this event in a political context.

Cab driver: The author mentions a conversation with a cab driver to illustrate a point about differing political perspectives.

Bernie Williams: A former professional baseball player for the New York Yankees. The author mentions him in a discussion about disliking opposing players.

Liz Cheney: A former Republican U.S. Representative. The author mentions her in a positive light as a politician who stood against her party.

Ronnie Reagan: A former President of the United States. The author expresses admiration for him.

George W. Bush: A former President of the United States. The author expresses admiration for him.

Adam Horovitz: A member of the Beastie Boys. The author mentions him in the context of Kathleen Hanna’s memoir.

Beastie Boys: An American hip hop group.

Lyme Disease: A tick-borne illness. The author mentions a character in a novel who suffered from this.

Plotagon Studio: Animation software mentioned by the author.

Jennifer Aniston: An American actress. The author mentions her in the context of the John and Yoko blog post, though the connection is unclear in the provided excerpt.

Cynthia: Likely refers to Cynthia Lennon, John Lennon’s first wife.

Julian: Likely refers to Julian Lennon, John Lennon’s son with Cynthia.

Kyoko: Likely refers to Kyoko Chan Cox, Yoko Ono’s daughter from a previous marriage.

Sean: Likely refers to Sean Lennon, John Lennon’s son with Yoko Ono.

Elliot Mintz: A publicist and friend of John Lennon and Yoko Ono. The author discusses his memoir.

We All Shine On: The title of Elliot Mintz’s memoir.

Sometime in New York City: An album by John Lennon and Yoko Ono.

Mass Casualty Events: Incidents resulting in a large number of injuries or deaths.

Jose Menendez: The father of Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents. The author references the case.

Erik and Lyle Menendez: Brothers convicted of murdering their parents. The author discusses their case and the documentary about it.

Erik Abramson: The defense lawyer for Erik Menendez.

JonBenét Ramsey: A child beauty queen who was murdered. The author mentions the case as another example of intense media scrutiny.

Brittany Griner: An American professional basketball player who was detained in Russia. The author discusses her case.

Simone Biles: An American artistic gymnast. The author discusses her experience with media attention and pregnancy rumors.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle: Members of the British royal family. The author discusses fake news and speculation about their children.

Kate Middleton: A member of the British royal family. The author discusses fake news and speculation about her health.

Gladstone: A character in Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four, mentioned in the context of political thought.

Rebel Girl: The title of Kathleen Hanna’s memoir.

Kathleen Hanna: A musician and activist, known for her work in the riot grrrl movement. The author reviews her memoir.

Annie: Likely refers to a character in Kathleen Hanna’s memoir or a story about her youth.

Olympia, Washington: A city in Washington state, significant to Kathleen Hanna’s early life and the riot grrrl movement.

domestic violence center: An organization that provides support and resources to victims of domestic violence.

Mr. Broadwater: A character in the author’s novel Secretarial Wars.

Mr. Perkins: A character in the author’s novel Let’s Play Ball.

Miranda: A character in the author’s novel Let’s Play Ball.

The Hatch Act: A U.S. law that prohibits federal employees from engaging in certain political activities. The author mentions it in the context of workplace rules.

Washington Post: A major American newspaper. The author references its reporting on political issues.

Gene Weingarten: A journalist for The Washington Post. The author expresses admiration for his writing.

Jeff Bezos: The founder of Amazon and owner of The Washington Post. The author discusses his influence.

Pentagon Papers: A classified report on U.S. involvement in Vietnam.

Watergate investigation: A political scandal that led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon.

Katharine Graham: The former publisher of The Washington Post during the Watergate era.

Tit and a Springer: A humorous reference to something associated with the Washington Post in the past, likely a specific column or article, though the exact meaning is unclear from the context.

Kamala Harris: The current Vice President of the United States. The author mentions her in a discussion about political rumors and misinformation.

Jack Smith: Likely refers to Jack Smith, the U.S. Department of Justice special counsel investigating former President Trump.

Anthony Fauci: An American physician and immunologist who served as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Joe Biden: The current President of the United States. The author discusses Biden’s actions and political standing.

Guadalupe: Described as the “de facto first lady of Cuba” in a fictional context.

DeSantis: Likely refers to Ron DeSantis, the current Governor of Florida and a potential Republican presidential candidate.

The Washington Post: A major American newspaper. The author references its reporting on political issues.

Frederick Douglass: An African American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. The author mentions him in a historical context.

George Washington: The first President of the United States. The author mentions him in a historical context.

Declaration of Independence: The document that declared the independence of the United States from Great Britain.

Constitution: The fundamental law of the United States.

Koch brothers: Charles and David Koch, American businessmen and philanthropists known for funding conservative and libertarian political causes.

Project 2025: A documented plan by a group envisioning an alternative government structure if a specific political figure were to be re-elected. The author views this plan negatively.

Democracy dies in darkness: The motto of The Washington Post.

Boatload: A large amount.

Stormy Daniels: An American adult film actress and director. The author mentions her in a political context.

Vivek Ramaswamy: An American entrepreneur and author. The author mentions him in a political context.

Tucker Carlson: An American conservative political commentator. The author mentions him in a political context.

Laura Ingraham: An American conservative television host. The author mentions her in a political context.

Cassidy Hutchinson: A former aide to White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows. The author mentions her in a political context.

Capitol: The building that houses the U.S. Congress. The author references events that occurred there.

Rump: A derogatory term for Donald Trump.

Republican National Convention: A political convention held every four years by the Republican Party.

January 6: The date of the attack on the U.S. Capitol.

House of Representatives: One of the two chambers of the U.S. Congress.

Supreme Court: The highest court in the U.S. federal judiciary.

Citizens United: A U.S. Supreme Court case concerning campaign finance.

Raphael Warnock: A Democratic U.S. Senator from Georgia. The author mentions a political contribution to his campaign.

Reverend: A title used for a member of the clergy.

Soros-like influence: A reference to George Soros, a wealthy investor and philanthropist often accused by some political groups of funding liberal causes and influencing elections. The author uses it to suggest external influence on political events.

Flag Day: A U.S. holiday celebrating the adoption of the flag. The author mentions it in a political context.

Guilt trips: Feelings of responsibility or regret that are used to manipulate others. The author describes messages that are designed to induce guilt.

Conspiracy theories: Explanations for events or situations that invoke a conspiracy by sinister and powerful groups, often despite evidence to the contrary. The author mentions these in the context of political events.

Antifa: A loosely organized antifascist movement. The author mentions this in the context of political protests.

Russia and Vietnam: Countries mentioned as potential origins of fake news websites.

Antifa: A loosely organized antifascist movement. The author mentions this in the context of political protests.

QAnon: A far-right conspiracy theory. The author mentions this in the context of political beliefs.

France (in the context of the French Resistance): The author mentions the French Resistance during World War Two as an example of an underground movement.

French Resistance: A network of organizations that fought against the Nazi occupation of France during World War Two.

Third Reich: The Nazi regime in Germany.

Nazi rule: The period of rule by the Nazi Party in Germany.

Dicktatorship: A derogatory term used by the author for a dictatorship, playing on the word “dick.”

King George III: The King of Great Britain and Ireland during the American Revolution. The author references the American determination to escape his rule.

Redcoats: British soldiers during the American Revolutionary War.

Revolutionary leaders: Figures who led the American Revolution.

King Donald: A derogatory term used by the author for Donald Trump, suggesting he acts like a monarch.

Fauci, Jack Smith: Figures who the author suggests were targeted by a political figure.

King: A reference to a political figure acting as a monarch.

Wild: Used in the context of political events or situations, likely meaning unpredictable or chaotic.

Play Ball Blog Briefing

Overview: This document analyzes excerpts from a blog titled “The Let’s Play Ball Blog.” The excerpts cover a range of topics, primarily focusing on critiques of Donald Trump and the current political climate in the United States, reviews of fiction (both the author’s own work and others’), and personal reflections on various experiences. The tone is consistently critical, opinionated, and often cynical, particularly regarding political figures and events.

Key Themes and Important Ideas/Facts:

1. Strong Criticism of Donald Trump: A dominant theme throughout the excerpts is a profound and scathing critique of Donald Trump. The author consistently portrays him in a highly negative light, attributing various negative traits and actions to him.

• Characterization: Trump is repeatedly described using terms like “mind-numbing stupidity,” “fragile ego,” “sociopathic jackass,” “entertainer rather than a politician,” “self-proclaimed King,” and “fascist dictator.”
• Political Actions: The author criticizes Trump’s policies, decisions, and impact on the country. Examples include his perceived attempts to dismantle everything threatening his ego, using policy decisions for personal benefit and that of “fellow oligarchs,” ignoring the constitution and rule of law, making unqualified appointments, and causing “many deaths, via insurrection and pandemic.”
• Comparison to Dictators/Tyrants: The author frequently compares Trump to dictators and tyrants from history, suggesting his aspirations are akin to kings and deposed dictators like Cromwell or Rasputin.
• Distrust of Supporters: Trump’s supporters are often depicted negatively, sometimes as those who are easily misled or who blindly follow him.
• Quote: “President Donald Trump is demonstrating not only the mind-numbing stupidity we’re familiar with from his first term, but now appears to be slipping still further into full-fledged insanity. In his fits of pique, he has set out to destroy everything that threatens his fragile ego.” (Page 1)
• Quote: “He has made it real by selling his world view to so many people who should know better. It’s beyond me how neoule can look at the same man and see such different things. Roughly half of us see a wise, all-powerful, all-knowing leader, and the other half a lying, sociopathic jackass.” (Page 1)
• Quote: “The acknowledged tipping point will arrive when Trump tries to overrule court orders that go against his wishes. I must admit, however, that I find that notion no crazier than his move to take over the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC. Lacking the intellect to appreciate the higher arts himself, he seems to believe he can eliminate them via executive order.” (Page 11)
• Quote: “Despite his recent brush with death, Donald Trump continues to be a menace to the United States and the world beyond. Most of us who share that conviction agree that he must be stopped, but virtually nobody says (out loud) that assassination is the way.” (Page 47)

1. Critique of the Current Political Landscape and Democracy: The author expresses deep concern about the state of democracy in the United States, attributing its precarious position largely to Trump and his influence.

• Division and Fantasy vs. Reality: The author highlights the stark division in the country and the seemingly alternate realities perceived by different groups, particularly regarding Trump.
• Erosion of Institutions: Concerns are raised about the potential for Trump to undermine governmental institutions and the rule of law.
• Escapism and Fantasy Governments: The author notes a trend of people retreating into “online fantasylands” and “fantasy governments” as a response to the political reality.
• Civil Unrest/Conflict: There are hints and explicit mentions of the potential for civil unrest or a “civil war,” although the author hopes for a more subtle revolution of ideas.
• Fundraising Hysteria: The author observes and critiques the often hysterical and manipulative nature of political fundraising efforts.
• Quote: “Maybe the best gambit for those of us on the “jackass” side is to just pretend that everything is cool. What if we decided en masse to live our own fantasies of a return to normalcy? We can simply pretend that our world is real and Trump’s isn’t.” (Page 2)
• Quote: “Less than six weeks into the latest insanity, a democracy that has stood for 250 years, even surviving a bloody four-year civil war during that time, is teetering on the brink.” (Page 11)
• Quote: “Perhaps the most entertaining was Trump’s insistence that the Social Security Administration is still paying out benefits to a slew of dead people. Listen to his riff: ‘We’re also identifying shocking levels of incompetence and probable fraud in the Social Security program for our seniors, and that our seniors and people that we love rely on.’” (Page 6)
• Quote: “Hopefully, we’ll gather some inspiration from stories like The Women, take to the streets in growing numbers, and stop this Trump-Musk horror show in its tracks.” (Page 5)

1. Reflections on Writing and Publishing: The author discusses their experiences as a writer, including their novels and the publishing process.

• Genre and Themes: The author identifies their fiction as “chick-lit” and mentions themes of international intrigue, fantasy governments, and exploring dark aspects of human nature.
• Self-Publishing and Traditional Publishing: The author touches upon the challenges and experiences of both self-publishing and attempting to gain the attention of traditional publishers.
• Novel Reviews: Reviews of the author’s own novels, Secretarial Wars, Let’s Play Ball, Gilded Prisons, and Budget Analyst In Space are included, highlighting key plot points and themes.
• Reception and Feedback: The author mentions receiving reviews and feedback on their work, including positive and critical comments.
• Quote: “As fiction writers, we are often called upon to alter reality in entertaining and hopefully uplifting ways. Now that the political reality in the United States has taken a turn for the disastrous, this is a particularly urgent task. I have never written romances per se, but my brand of chick-lit often contains political threads, as well as international intrigue.” (Page 27)
• Quote: “Having been declared immensely promising, I wonder why the powers that be aren’t knocking down my doors to reach me directly. It seems there has to be a middleman, someone with the right connections, who knows what the decision makers are looking for and can help me present my rewritten work in the best possible light.” (Page 59)
• Quote: “My first two novels, Secretarial Wars (2003) and The Rock Star’s Homecoming (2007), are nostalgic tales that reflect my true young-adult life. The rather confused heroine of the first story, Miriam, suffers through a lackluster marriage and subsequent divorce from her husband Jeff, mostly due to mutual boredom.” (Page 72)

1. Personal Reflections and Experiences: The author shares personal anecdotes and thoughts on various topics, offering insights into their worldview and experiences.

• Vietnam War and Women: A significant portion of the excerpts details research into women who served in Vietnam, highlighting their experiences and the lack of recognition they received.
• Relationships and Personal Struggles: The author reflects on relationships, personal struggles, and challenges faced by women.
• Scam Experiences: The author details encounters with various online scams, reflecting on their own naivete and the prevalence of such schemes.
• Work Experiences: Anecdotes about past jobs, particularly at government agencies, are included.
• Reflections on the Past: The author sometimes looks back at historical events and figures through a personal lens.
• Quote: “Nearly half of us see a wise, all-powerful, all-knowing leader, and the other half a lying, sociopathic jackass. Maybe the best gambit for those of us on the “jackass” side is to just pretend that everything is cool. What if we decided en masse to live our own fantasies of a return to normalcy? We can simply pretend that our world is real and Trump’s isn’t.” (Page 1-2) – This quote, although primarily political, reflects the author’s personal grappling with the current reality.
• Quote: “I came across an intriguing post on Facebook recently that described Donald Trump as an entertainer rather than a politician. This writer makes a strong case that Trump’s credentials as a showman have been honed through a lifetime of business graft, reality TV, and a turbulent personal life.” (Page 6) – While about Trump, this illustrates the author’s engagement with and reflection on external commentary.
• Quote: “In my more naïve days, I’m ashamed to say, I wasn’t so good at spotting scams. Once I practically gave away the store in response to a demand from “Amazon” to reactivate my account.” (Page 58) – A direct personal reflection on a negative experience.

1. Social and Cultural Commentary: The blog touches upon broader social and cultural issues, often filtered through the author’s perspective.

• “Woke” Culture and Political Correctness: The author expresses frustration with aspects of “woke” culture and political correctness, particularly regarding language and identity politics.
• Gender and Relationships: Reflections on gender roles, relationships, and the challenges faced by women are present.
• Media and Information: The author comments on the nature of online information, the spread of misinformation, and the role of traditional media.
• Escapism: The concept of escapism, both through fiction and online interactions, is discussed.
• Quote: “Another “woke” movement that seems overboard to me is the craze for using plural pronouns when the subject is clearly singular. I will concede that violating this basic rule of English grammar may be necessary if the person referred to is actually non-binary. Otherwise, I don’t see the point.” (Page 71)
• Quote: “As fiction writers, we are often called upon to alter reality in entertaining and hopefully uplifting ways. Now that the political reality in the United States has taken a turn for the disastrous, this is a particularly urgent task.” (Page 27)

Overall Tone and Style:

The blog’s tone is characterized by:

• Cynicism and Frustration: Particularly evident in the political commentary.
• Opinionated: The author expresses strong personal views on a wide range of subjects.
• Informal and Conversational: The writing style is reminiscent of a personal blog.
• Critical: The author is highly critical of political figures and certain social trends.
• Self-Reflective: The author shares personal experiences and introspective thoughts.

America: Crisis and Fantasy

• What is the central argument presented in the sources regarding the current political climate in the United States? The sources consistently portray the current political landscape as deeply troubled and teetering on the brink of crisis. A significant focus is placed on the behavior and impact of Donald Trump, describing his presidency and continued influence as demonstrating “mind-numbing stupidity,” “full-fledged insanity,” and behaving as if the country is his “kingdom.” His actions are seen as a direct threat to democratic institutions and the rule of law. The sources express concern about the widespread support for Trump despite his perceived flaws and the potential for this support to lead to a more authoritarian form of government or even civil conflict.
• How do the sources characterize Donald Trump and his supporters? Donald Trump is repeatedly characterized as a “sociopathic jackass,” an “entertainer rather than a politician,” a “self-proclaimed King,” and an “authoritarian fascist.” His supporters are described as those who only “can only fantasize about having such preternatural power” and are easily swayed by his rhetoric. The sources suggest a significant portion of his base is fueled by racism and sexism, and that their support for Trump is based on a desire to “Make America Great Again,” which is interpreted as a return to a time when white males held unchallenged power.
• What concerns are raised in the sources about the upcoming 2024 election? The sources express significant anxiety about the 2024 election, viewing it as a critical juncture for the future of American democracy. There is a strong concern that Trump may win again, potentially leading to the establishment of a “Fascist dictatorship” or the overthrow of democratic norms. The possibility of unrest and civil conflict is explicitly mentioned as a potential outcome depending on the election’s results. The sources also highlight the belief among many that the 2020 election was stolen, despite a lack of evidence, which further exacerbates anxieties about the upcoming election.
• How do the sources discuss the concept of “fantasy” in relation to political reality? The idea of “fantasy” is woven throughout the sources, particularly in the context of the current political situation. It is suggested that many people are living in a “fantasy” and choosing to ignore the harsh reality of Trump’s impact on the country. The term “Fantasy Government” is used to describe Trump’s administration, implying a disconnect from practical governance. Additionally, the sources discuss “Online Fantasylands” where fabricated news and conspiracy theories thrive, contributing to a distorted perception of reality among certain segments of the population. The act of writing fiction is also presented as a form of altering reality, perhaps as a coping mechanism or a way to explore alternative outcomes.
• What role does the blog owner’s personal history and experiences play in the themes presented? The blog owner’s personal experiences and perspectives heavily influence the themes discussed. Their background in government, writing, and observations of interpersonal dynamics, including difficult bosses and challenging relationships, appear to inform their critical view of political power and authority. The reflections on personal failures and the desire for revenge seem to parallel the frustrations expressed about the current political state. The discussions about relationships and the challenges faced by women in various contexts also contribute to the broader commentary on power dynamics and societal issues.
• How do the sources view the role of media and information in the current political climate? The sources are deeply skeptical of much of the information being disseminated, particularly in the digital realm. They highlight the prevalence of “fake news” and “Online Fantasylands” where baseless claims and conspiracy theories flourish. The manipulation of information is seen as a tool used to deceive the public and maintain political power. The blog owner also expresses frustration with traditional news outlets, such as The Washington Post, for perceived shortcomings in their coverage and their declining readership.
• What alternatives or solutions are proposed in the sources to address the current political challenges? While the sources are largely critical and express significant pessimism, some potential avenues for addressing the political challenges are mentioned, albeit with varying degrees of hope. These include supporting progressive causes and candidates, encouraging political engagement, potentially forming a “true Resistance movement” through mass protests and civil disobedience, and even imagining alternative political structures or a “new country.” The idea of relying on “reason and intellect” and studying history and the constitution is also presented as a way to counter the prevailing political trends.
• Beyond politics, what other themes are explored in the sources? In addition to the pervasive political commentary, the sources delve into a range of other themes. These include personal relationships, particularly romantic relationships and friendships, and the challenges inherent in them. The experiences of women are explored through discussions of military service, careers, motherhood, and societal expectations. Creative pursuits, such as writing and animation, are also discussed, often in the context of expressing personal struggles and exploring alternative realities. The sources also touch upon themes of historical understanding, the nature of truth, and the impact of individual choices on personal and broader outcomes.

Conclusion:

The excerpts from “The Let’s Play Ball Blog” provide a window into the author’s perspective on current events, personal experiences, and creative endeavors. The most prominent theme is the author’s deep-seated opposition to Donald Trump and their concern for the state of American democracy. This political commentary is interwoven with personal reflections, reviews of fiction, and observations on social and cultural trends. The blog serves as a platform for the author to express their opinions, share their work, and connect with others who may share their views, particularly within a “chickreads” context.

The Let’s Play Ball Blog

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

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