Pitchforks and Torches: The Worst of the Worst, from Beck, Bill, and Bush to Palin and Other Posturing Republicans

For those on the political left, not the far radical left but the moderate left, Keith Olbermann has given voice to their concerns and priorities and values. I will admit to tuning in to his weeknight evening news broadcasts to hear the latest complaints about the Bush administration or the skewering of some outrageous behavior somewhere in the political fishbowl. It has been quite cathartic over the years. I'm sure that those on the political right feel the same way about the many political right leaning broadcasts available.




One of the most enjoyable segments for me has been Olbermann's "worst person in the world," where individuals are singled out for ridicule for obtuseness and wrongheadedness. He is constantly, and sometime hilariously battering the likes of Glenn Beck, Sarah Palin, or Bill O'Reilly. For people of my political persuasion it is truly entertaining. But I recognize that not all will agree.,



Also his regular commentaries take on policies, political figures, and societal norms have proven quite popular and I routinely enjoyed them as well.



For those like me who have enjoyed Keith Olbermann's broadcasts this book will be most welcome. They are essentially scripts of segments of his show that demonstrate the full range of Olbermann's characteristic passion, anger, and dry humor. I have seen most of these when delivered on the show, but reading them anew is a joy. I found myself nodding in agreement when I read his special comment from 2008 about California's Prop 8 when he said that "truly, I do not understand" about those who would prohibit gay marriage. I have said the same myself, long before Keith Olbermann made it the subject of a special comment. His powerful barrage against the forces of intolerance here, and elsewhere in the book, give adequate words to my own concerns well.



While I enjoyed this book, I have one major caveat. It very much plays to the mindset of his viewership. Don't expect dispassionate public policy analysis. This is not a work of scholarship but of advocacy. If you want the former seek it elsewhere. What you can expect is an eloquent statement of liberal ideology, always seasoned with a sense of humanity and compassion, of being our brother's (and sister's) keepers, of trying to effect positive change in which civil liberties and the general welfare are advanced, and of recognizing the worth of persons. His cogent criticisms of the far right political agenda and those who espouse it are calming to my wellbeing. Olbermann also pokes holes in many of the most cherished beliefs of conservatives, and mercilessly takes apart far right crackpots and cranks. Buck up liberals, progressives, or whatever else you choose to call yourselves, this book is for you.Pitchforks and Torches: The Worst of the Worst, from Beck, Bill, and Bush to Palin and Other Posturing Republicans