NYT's "The Vice-Presidential Debate" - Send in the Clowns

fr: http://community.nytimes.com/article/comments/2008/10/03/opinion/03fri1.html

October 3rd, 2008 3:30 am
Time for McCain to 'Send in the Clowns'?

While it may be true that Palin's debate performance was not a debacle - it's nevertheless clear that talking points do not a Veep make. There was only one person on stage last night worthy of the challenge. And it was not the one in a skirt.

But fear not, McCain's not done yet. Alas, he is at this moment, conjuring a new strategy. Maybe one with a Broadway angle? Glass in hand, ruefully humming, occasionally slurring, he's probably echoing Sondheim:

Isn't it rich?
Aren't we a pair?
Me here at the end,
You nothing but flair.
Send in the clowns.

Isn't it bliss?
Don't you approve?
One who is desperate,
missing his grove.
One who is clueless,
her straight-talk a joke.
Set'em up Joe,
I need a toke.
Where are the clowns?
Send in the clowns.

Just when I'd thought I could win,
You turn out to be,
No better than spin.
Send in the clowns.

Making my entrance with my usual glare,
Sure of my lines,
But no one is there.
All eyes on you,
Empty words and fluff,
Good God what's happened - this is tough.
Don't you love farce?
It's a kick in the arse.

My fault I fear.
Thought you'd do okay.
Sorry, my dear, your no Hillary...
not today.

But where are the clowns?
Quick, send in the clowns.
Don't bother, they're here.

Isn't it rich?
Isn't it queer,
Losing my mind this late
In my career?

And where are the clowns?
There ought to be clowns.
Well, maybe next year...

— BeerBellyBuddah, Wpg., Canada