The essence of decadence is the ability to pretend. Black is white, and 2 + 2 really can be five if you want it to be. But reality is a harsh master. Ignore him for the moment, but you cannot ignore him forever, because one day he will be coming for you with a whip or a noose, and all your pretending will have gained you is a very painful punishment or death.

Messiah’s, whether false or not, often end up being crucified. The members of our political class seem to view themselves as Messiah’s. They can’t even envision that when things go wrong there will be be a cross built just for them.