the classic cliche “all is fair in love and war” is only partially right. at times it seems like the “and” would be better served by a slash or a hyphen, underscoring the intimate relationship between these two concepts. drawing parallels between the two is a common technique, and for good reason. they both involve acts of calculated passion, fates decided by the intersection of planning and fortune.

john kerry might say that i rushed to war without a plan to win the peace. that i’ve gotten into a quagmire without an exit strategy.

he’d be right.

maybe i’ll get voted out of office in the next election cycle.