“Stop saying that!” — Count Rugen, The Princess Bride, 1987

I can’t stand when people use the overblown expression “to the right of Attila the Hun” to describe conservatives.  Despite a few experts’ efforts to ascribe conservative traits to Attila’s approach to politics and culture, as well as to his generally martial way of doing things, the fact is the man indiscriminately murdered tens of thousands of innocent people.  Many of them were women and children.  He was more like Pol Pot with a penchant for bling.  And he rode with what was the 5th Century equivalent of a scuzzy, godless, cutthroat outlaw biker gang.  Conservatives would be more like Jackie Chan and Burt Reynolds taking care of business at the railroad crossing during The Cannonball Run.

So I’ve never been flattered by the expression, just baffled.  I don’t look, smell, or act like Attila.  Quite frankly, I just wish people would stop using the expression.  That said, you won’t find me trying to shut them up.  I’m a firm believer in free speech.  In fact, we should especially encourage it in liberals.  God forbid they should stop talking, shouting, drooling, foaming.  Then we’d never know what stupid things they’re planning.  If they want to keep transmitting in plain language for long periods, let ’em.  They’ll just keep giving away their position along with their battle plans.  Remember: “Forewarned is forearmed.”