The New York Times Op—ed page continues its downward vector, with an apparently non—ironic column written by astrologer Erin Sullivan, revealing what she sees the stars telling us about the Democratic contenders for the Presdiency.

Evidently, the stars are rather liberal, and have been reading the papers lately. They tell us mostly good things about the Democrats. Wesley Clark, he of the unblinking eyes, is described as a 'man's man.' Nevermind the curious refusal of his former military colleagues (presumably rather manly themselves) to speak out in his favor. Perhaps more realistically, the stars tell Ms. Sullivan that General Clark is 'having opportunities to be influential and willing to take what he can get.'

Howard Dean is described in terms of  'erratic energy and emotional volatility,' and the stars are said to be predicting a period of soulsearching this Spring. I wonder if they told Ms. Sullivan the same message prior to the Iowa caucus? Now, that would have been an interesting column.

John Edwards, unsurprisingly, turns out to have much in his chart which makes him a puer aeternus, matching his visage. Going out on a limb, Ms Sullivan calls this tort lawyer 'a true son of the messenger and trickster god.' Boy, the unexpected insight of the stars really justifies consulting an astrologer, doesn't it?

The stars are obviously putting their money on John Kerry, though. They see him achieving his goals in the long term, and as having been empowered with 'core strength' over the last 18 months. The heavens can read the polls, too.

Poor Joe Liberman just can't catch a break. Powered by his passion for intellect and spirituality (another insight only the stars could provide), he is 'stubborn and not adaptable.' No wonder he is 'feeling overwhelmed by his labors and the influence of those around him. He is in a vital transitional phase. His capacity to reveal himself is blocked, limiting his drive and ambitions.'

The two fringe candidates, Sharpton and Kucinich, come across as noble, inspired by their great and lofty intentions. Dennis the Menace has a 'profound dedication to conservation of resources, both natural and manufactured. He is relentless in his pursuit of justice and truth. He deeply empathizes with the collective suffering of humanity.' He apparently was born the same day as Gandhi. Sharpton is 'fascinated by other cultures and desires global harmony, seeing the whole world as his home.' Except, of course, for Jews, I guess.

Ms Sullivan is a welcome addition to the NY Times op—ed page. She actually does manage to raise the level of analysis and insight above that practiced by Paul Krugman and Maureen Dowd. And she serves as a leading indicator of the new level of journalism being practiced by what was once the leading newspaper in America.

Posted by Thomas   02 03 04