Misinformation is the ‘Poison Apple’
To the Editor:
Listening to Trump’s string of falsehoods and misrepresentations reminds me not of what a strong and vibrant nation we live in, but how the Party of Trump has adopted a pattern of relying on fairytale fantasy about their platform and agenda.
Now, even after Helene’s wrath, the rhetoric is being used against relief efforts in our devastated communities, using misinformation and blatant lies to blindside voters and discredit those on the front lines. When the truth morphs into something that can be “adjusted” we risk plunging ourselves and our nation to blindness to the truth.
And I’m reminded …
In Grimm’s Fairy Tales’ first publication in 1812, we are introduced to Snow White, the lovely woods-maiden who becomes the target and obsession of the Evil Queen’s endless vanity and control, fed by her powerful, all-knowing Magic Mirror.
“Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?”
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When the mirror strays from it usual ego-pleasing response of “You, my Queen” and names “Snow White as the fairest of them all,” the enraged Queen orders a huntsman to go to kill her at once. Self-devotion rises over the lives and goodness of all others, personal gain is all that matters. If this reminds you of Donald Trump’s extreme narcissism and constant revenge threats against all who refuse to bow to him, you are not alone.
When the huntsman fails and returns empty-handed, the outraged Queen disguises herself and takes our heroine a poison apple. Using deceit and lies, she convinces her to taste of it, where upon she falls into a “forever sleep.” This appears to be precisely the strategy being employed by today’s GOP with non-stop outrageous half-truths and complete fabrications in their quest to lull voters into a “forever sleep.” Apparently, they are succeeding with some, as Trump has thus far evaded truth and equal justice.
Near the end of Grimm’s version, the good Prince rescues Snow White, captures the Evil Queen and sentences her to “put on these red-hot iron slippers and dance until you die.” I would soften the ending somewhat. I truly believe that the majority of thinking citizens want, and deservedly expect, nothing more than equal application of the law, real justice and true democracy to prevail. I’m sure that the vast majority would be quite pleased if instead of “red-hot iron slippers” the Court bailiff would simply lead Mr. Trump out of the courtroom wearing a pair of room-temperature handcuffs to serve an appropriate sentence for the injustices that he has by his actions committed.
If indeed my preferred ending should come to pass, I think many would agree, that the USA could begin to live happily ever after, again.
John Beckman
Cullowhee
