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Form a gentle fist with your hand, pressing the thumb against the inner part of the forefinger or letting it rest on top. This gesture mimics the act of handing over an imaginary cash note, representing what is often referred to as the “Clinton Thumb,” a stance also associated with other political figures like Obama and Blair. Utilize this hand motion while making a point in conversation; it conveys determination and clarity without the aggression that comes with a pointing finger.
This marks the conclusion of our introductory lesson on political communication prior to the Trump era. In our next session, we’ll explore the importance of message consistency. Come prepared with a repetitive phrase, such as “we’re all in this together,” to be used in any situation.
For younger audiences, it may seem exaggerated to portray past political styles as overly sterile and controlled. However, looking through online platforms, one can see how Trump’s emergence revealed a common public dissatisfaction with the conformity prevalent in politics. This raises curiosity about whether similar sentiments are emerging in other areas.
Consider the media landscape where podcasts thrive. Their charm lies in their unrefined, nonlinear, and often chaotic nature, which starkly contrasts with the rigid standards of traditional broadcasting. Audiences raised on linear radio may find it increasingly intolerable in comparison.
Even in the realm of sports, known for its meticulous structure—exemplified by coaching styles such as that of Pep Guardiola—there may be signs of a shift. Take Arsenal, for instance; while they execute their plays with remarkable precision, they also face the risk of becoming too mechanical. In contrast, teams like Liverpool, who play with slightly more spontaneity, are achieving success despite not having a significantly stronger lineup. If Liverpool secures the Premier League, we may witness a decline in the era of strict coaching methods, which often frustrate fans.
Years prior, there was a lamentation regarding the ‘death of the maverick’ across various industries, suggesting that the abundance of data has led to homogenized approaches. Songwriters, for example, are inclined to introduce catchy hooks early on to retain listener attention. Likewise, the design of new residential projects often follows predictable layouts. This rigidity extended to football until a revolt became apparent. It’s curious that the first area to reflect this change was politics, which typically responds to wider trends. Watching Trump’s unexpectedly effective inaugural address allowed for a moment of hope: his achievement signals to other controlled environments that straying from precise formats can yield rewards.
As I write this from Los Angeles—a city known for its lack of a cohesive architectural identity and structured layout—its eclectic makeup offers more authenticity than many other major cities. The unpredictable nature of this landscape can sometimes mirror the randomness of life itself.
Post the Great Fire of London in 1666, various designs aimed to impose order on the city’s chaotic structure, favoring strict geometric forms. Such proposals, however, were ultimately disregarded. Had they been adopted, London might have developed into a sterile grid or an orderly piazza similar to other European cities.
Los Angeles, much like London, reflects an unrefined charm that beckons change without losing its essence. Even amidst its challenges, the lack of monotony ensures its continued allure.
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