Book review: Absolute Power
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10:38 am, April 22nd, 2008 - 80 comments
Categories: culture -
Tags: culture
As regular readers will know, we’ve long refused to let Robinsod write for us due to his penchant for filth and gutter politics. But seeing as the book he’s offered to review for us is written by Ian Wishart we felt it was somehow appropriate.
Attempting the unreadable
A literary analysis of Absolute Power
I had high hopes for Absolute Power, I really did. If Faulkner taught us anything with The Sound and the Fury it was that a tale told by an idiot could be a masterpiece, if Nabokov’s Pale Fire offers us any lesson it’s that an exposition of paranoia and madness can make for damn fine reading.
So it was with great literary expectation that I picked up on the first of the excerpts published on Cameron Slater’s blog. I have to say I was disappointed and further reading just brought further disappointment. I mean sure the idiocy, madness and paranoia are all there. So too the stream of consciousness prose, the wild Pynchonesque explosion of detail beyond logic and the refusal to be bound by traditional narratological process. It should have all added up to some kind of masterpiece.
But it hasn’t.
Take for example the following line:
Like all good serial killers, H2 seldom leaves her paw prints at the scene of a crime
WTF??? So she’s like a serial killer dog? Right? That’s a metaphor we’re all familiar with. Especially since Lassie was picked up for disappearing all those LA hookers (in fact I think Wishart may have covered this in his ‘labour has mob connections’ section). Wrong. It’s just lousy writing.
In the much better exposition of madness that is Nabokov’s Pale Fire the insanity is introduced gradually through ever expanding annotations to a fictional long poem made by its crazy protagonist until finally the reader is overwhelmed by the madness and it’s done beautifully. In The Sound and the Fury the main narrator is a man/child named Benjy who is, through some form of intellectual disability, unable to distinguish between past and present. The narratives of his passages are entirely associative and yet they can be mapped out and with the contributions of other narrators can be made sense of. Sadly although Wishart’s narrator is clearly mad we are not brought into it gradually and so cannot appreciate a Nabokovian “knight-shift of the mind” and his logic, which also seems to be associative, offers no decodable sense or meaning as Faulkner’s does.
I have tried all sorts of tricks to unpackage the text of Absolute Power and tried all kinds of comparisons. I thought it might have been written in the mode of the metafictionalists and so co-read it with William Gass and Robert Coover. But they have a philosophical meta-text that provides a key to their reading. Wishart hasn’t. I tried reading it as self-reflexive pot-boiler and co-read it with Phillip K Dick but there was no self-reflexivity. I even tried reading as a work of magical realism alongside Jorge Luis Borges but it was just too nasty and dull to fit that fine genre. In the end I tried to read it as a cultural object, a novel-length manifestation of the impotent rage that is the Kiwiblog comments section and, while it started to make sense that way, what was the point and why would I subject myself to that? So I swapped to reading the backs of cereal packets just to find some relief.
If there is a common thread between most of the masterpieces that feature insane or impaired narrators it is that they are full of the sound and the fury signifying nothing. Wishart’s work is certainly this. But not in the good clever and existential way. More in the ‘man who has been let down by community care’ way. I really can’t understand why he bothered
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- Luxon’s ‘localism’ strikes again
The Government has used its final post-Cabinet press conference of the year to punch down on local government without offering any credible solutions to the issues our councils are facing. ...6 days ago
- Release: Govt breaks promise on EV chargers
The Government has failed to keep its promise to ‘super charge’ the EV network, delivering just 292 chargers - less than half of the 670 chargers needed to meet its target. ...6 days ago
- Greens call for end to subsidies for Methanex
The Green Party is calling for the Government to stop subsidising the largest user of the country’s gas supplies, Methanex, following a report highlighting the multi-national’s disproportionate influence on energy prices in Aotearoa. ...6 days ago
- Govt child poverty targets allow for increase in poverty
The Green Party is appalled with the Government’s new child poverty targets that are based on a new ‘persistent poverty’ measure that could be met even with an increase in child poverty. ...1 week ago
- Release: Four weeks annual leave under threat
The Government’s attack on workers continues with news it is scrapping work on the Holidays Act. ...1 week ago
- Govt’s emissions plan for measly 1% reduction
New independent analysis has revealed that the Government’s Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) will reduce emissions by a measly 1 per cent by 2030, failing to set us up for the future and meeting upcoming targets. ...1 week ago
- Greens stand in solidarity with Whakaata Māori on sad day
The loss of 27 kaimahi at Whakaata Māori and the end of its daily news bulletin is a sad day for Māori media and another step backwards for Te Tiriti o Waitangi justice. ...1 week ago
- Sanctions regime to create more hardship for families
Yesterday the Government passed cruel legislation through first reading to establish a new beneficiary sanction regime that will ultimately mean more households cannot afford the basic essentials. ...1 week ago
- Govt gifts renters housing anxiety for Christmas
Today's passing of the Government's Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill–which allows landlords to end tenancies with no reason–ignores the voice of the people and leaves renters in limbo ahead of the festive season. ...1 week ago
- Release: National Party urged to support modern slavery legislation
Labour is urging the Prime Minister to walk the talk and support legislation combating modern slavery. ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour has lost confidence in the Speaker
The Speaker of the New Zealand Parliament made an unprecedented decision on the government amendment to the Fast Track Approvals Bill last night. ...1 week ago
- One year on, still no progress on new ferries
Today’s announcement from the Government on its plan for new ferries throws more uncertainty on the future of the country’s rail network. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Nicola Willis’ smaller ferries will cost more
After wasting a year, Nicola Willis has delivered a worse deal for the Cook Strait ferries that will end up being more expensive and take longer to arrive. ...2 weeks ago
- Bill to sanction unlawful occupation of Palestine
Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick has today launched a Member’s Bill to sanction Israel for its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as the All Out For Gaza rally reaches Parliament. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour fully supports greyhound racing ban
The Government has done the right thing in moving to ban greyhound racing. ...2 weeks ago
- Greyhound racing industry ban marks new era for animal welfare
After years of advocacy, the Green Party is very happy to hear the Government has listened to our collective voices and announced the closure of the greyhound racing industry, by 1 August 2026. ...2 weeks ago
- Rangatahi voices must be centred in Government’s Relationship and Sexuality Education refresh
In response to a new report from ERO, the Government has acknowledged the urgent need for consistency across the curriculum for Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt introduces archaic anti-worker legislation
The Green Party is appalled at the Government introducing legislation that will make it easier to penalise workers fighting for better pay and conditions. ...2 weeks ago
- Winston Peters – Kinleith Mill Speech
Thank you for the invitation to speak with you tonight on behalf of the political party I belong to - which is New Zealand First. As we have heard before this evening the Kinleith Mill is proposing to reduce operations by focusing on pulp and discontinuing “lossmaking paper production”. They say that they are currently consulting on the plan to permanently shut ...2 weeks ago - Swarbrick calls on Auckland Mayor to end delay of revival of St James Theatre
Auckland Central MP, Chlöe Swarbrick, has written to Mayor Wayne Brown requesting he stop the unnecessary delays on St James Theatre’s restoration. ...2 weeks ago
- He Ara Anamata: Greens launch Emissions Reduction Plan
Today, the Green Party of Aotearoa proudly unveils its new Emissions Reduction Plan–He Ara Anamata–a blueprint reimagining our collective future. ...2 weeks ago
- Internationally-trained doctors jump at chance to boost health workforce
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says Health New Zealand will move swiftly to support dozens of internationally-trained doctors already in New Zealand on their journey to employment here, after a tripling of sought-after examination places. “The Medical Council has delivered great news for hardworking overseas doctors who want to contribute ...9 hours ago - PM appoints business leader to APEC Business Advisory Council
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has appointed Sarah Ottrey to the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC). “At my first APEC Summit in Lima, I experienced firsthand the role that ABAC plays in guaranteeing political leaders hear the voice of business,” Mr Luxon says. “New Zealand’s ABAC representatives are very well respected and ...2 days ago
- New intelligence oversight appointments
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced four appointments to New Zealand’s intelligence oversight functions. The Honourable Robert Dobson KC has been appointed Chief Commissioner of Intelligence Warrants, and the Honourable Brendan Brown KC has been appointed as a Commissioner of Intelligence Warrants. The appointments of Hon Robert Dobson and Hon ...2 days ago
- New housing developments able to progress more quickly
Improvements in the average time it takes to process survey and title applications means housing developments can progress more quickly, Minister for Land Information Chris Penk says. “The government is resolutely focused on improving the building and construction pipeline,” Mr Penk says. “Applications to issue titles and subdivide land are ...2 days ago
- Actions to speed up air travel delivering results
The Government’s measures to reduce airport wait times, and better transparency around flight disruptions is delivering encouraging early results for passengers ahead of the busy summer period, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Improving the efficiency of air travel is a priority for the Government to give passengers a smoother, more reliable ...2 days ago
- Ending contracted emergency housing in Rotorua
The Government today announced the intended closure of the Apollo Hotel as Contracted Emergency Housing (CEH) in Rotorua, Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says. This follows a 30 per cent reduction in the number of households in CEH in Rotorua since National came into Government. “Our focus is on ending CEH in the Whakarewarewa area starting ...2 days ago
- Vocational education and training decisions support return to regions
The Government will reshape vocational education and training to return decision making to regions and enable greater industry input into work-based learning Tertiary Education and Skills Minister, Penny Simmonds says. “The redesigned system will better meet the needs of learners, industry, and the economy. It includes re-establishing regional polytechnics that ...2 days ago
- Reducing the environmental impact of synthetic refrigerants
The Government is taking action to better manage synthetic refrigerants and reduce emissions caused by greenhouse gases found in heating and cooling products, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds says. “Regulations will be drafted to support a product stewardship scheme for synthetic refrigerants, Ms. Simmonds says. “Synthetic refrigerants are found in a ...2 days ago
- Ngāruawāhia section of Waikato Expressway back to 4 lanes for Christmas
People travelling on State Highway 1 north of Hamilton will be relieved that remedial works and safety improvements on the Ngāruawāhia section of the Waikato Expressway were finished today, with all lanes now open to traffic, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.“I would like to acknowledge the patience of road users ...2 days ago
- Appointments to the ENZ board
Tertiary Education and Skills Minister, Penny Simmonds, has announced a new appointment to the board of Education New Zealand (ENZ). Dr Erik Lithander has been appointed as a new member of the ENZ board for a three-year term until 30 January 2028. “I would like to welcome Dr Erik Lithander to the ...3 days ago
- Government to celebrate Waitangi Day around NZ
The Government will have senior representatives at Waitangi Day events around the country, including at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, but next year Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has chosen to take part in celebrations elsewhere. “It has always been my intention to celebrate Waitangi Day around the country with different ...3 days ago
- More gangs added to Gangs Act list
Two more criminal gangs will be subject to the raft of laws passed by the Coalition Government that give Police more powers to disrupt gang activity, and the intimidation they impose in our communities, Police Minister Mark Mitchell says. Following an Order passed by Cabinet, from 3 February 2025 the ...3 days ago
- Judicial appointment announced
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- GDP data highlights importance of growth
The latest economic figures highlight the importance of the steps the Government has taken to restore respect for taxpayers’ money and drive economic growth, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. Data released today by Stats NZ shows Gross Domestic Product fell 1 per cent in the September quarter. “Treasury and most ...3 days ago
- Strengthening Free Speech in Universities
Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds and Associate Minister of Education David Seymour today announced legislation changes to strengthen freedom of speech obligations on universities. “Freedom of speech is fundamental to the concept of academic freedom and there is concern that universities seem to be taking a more risk-averse ...3 days ago
- Launch of Emergency Cellular Priority Service
Police Minister, Mark Mitchell, and Internal Affairs Minister, Brooke van Velden, today launched a further Public Safety Network cellular service that alongside last year’s Cellular Roaming roll-out, puts globally-leading cellular communications capability into the hands of our emergency responders. The Public Safety Network’s new Cellular Priority service means Police, Wellington ...3 days ago
- Minister reopens Mangamuka Gorge
State Highway 1 through the Mangamuka Gorge has officially reopened today, providing a critical link for Northlanders and offering much-needed relief ahead of the busy summer period, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.“The Mangamuka Gorge is a vital route for Northland, carrying around 1,300 vehicles per day and connecting the Far ...3 days ago
- Funding confirmed for second Ashburton Bridge
The Government has welcomed decisions by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and Ashburton District Council confirming funding to boost resilience in the Canterbury region, with construction on a second Ashburton Bridge expected to begin in 2026, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Delivering a second Ashburton Bridge to improve resilience and ...3 days ago
- Government boosts support for avian influenza response
The Government is backing the response into high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Otago, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says. “Cabinet has approved new funding of $20 million to enable MPI to meet unbudgeted ongoing expenses associated with the H7N6 response including rigorous scientific testing of samples at the enhanced PC3 ...3 days ago
- Levelling the playing field for media advertising
Legislation that will repeal all advertising restrictions for broadcasters on Sundays and public holidays has passed through first reading in Parliament today, Media Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “As a growing share of audiences get their news and entertainment from streaming services, these restrictions have become increasingly redundant. New Zealand on ...4 days ago
- Inspector-General of Defence appointed
Today the House agreed to Brendan Horsley being appointed Inspector-General of Defence, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “Mr Horsley’s experience will be invaluable in overseeing the establishment of the new office and its support networks. “He is currently Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, having held that role since June 2020. ...4 days ago
- Fire and Emergency New Zealand final levy rates confirmed
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says the Government has agreed to the final regulations for the levy on insurance contracts that will fund Fire and Emergency New Zealand from July 2026. “Earlier this year the Government agreed to a 2.2 percent increase to the rate of levy. Fire ...4 days ago
- More AML relief on the way for Kiwi businesses
The Government is delivering regulatory relief for New Zealand businesses through changes to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act. “The Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Amendment Bill, which was introduced today, is the second Bill – the other being the Statutes Amendment Bill - that ...4 days ago
- Hawke’s Bay Expressway moving at pace
Transport Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed further progress on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway Road of National Significance (RoNS), with the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) Board approving funding for the detailed design of Stage 1, paving the way for main works construction to begin in late 2025.“The Government is moving at ...4 days ago
- Government seeks partnerships to plant trees on Crown-owned-land
The Government today released a request for information (RFI) to seeking interest in partnerships to plant trees on Crown-owned land with low farming and conservation value (excluding National Parks) Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced. “Planting trees on Crown-owned land will drive economic growth by creating more forestry jobs in our regions, providing more wood ...4 days ago
- Wide ranging legislation to make justice system more efficient
Court timeliness, access to justice, and improving the quality of existing regulation are the focus of a series of law changes introduced to Parliament today by Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee. The three Bills in the Regulatory Systems (Justice) Amendment Bill package each improve a different part of the ...4 days ago
- Diverse skills in community trust appointments
A total of 41 appointments and reappointments have been made to the 12 community trusts around New Zealand that serve their regions, Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones says. “These trusts, and the communities they serve from the Far North to the deep south, will benefit from the rich experience, knowledge, ...4 days ago
- Torture redress for survivors of the Lake Alice Unit
The Government has confirmed how it will provide redress to survivors who were tortured at the Lake Alice Psychiatric Hospital Child and Adolescent Unit (the Lake Alice Unit). “The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care found that many of the 362 children who went through the Lake Alice Unit between 1972 and ...4 days ago
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It has been a busy, productive year in the House as the coalition Government works hard to get New Zealand back on track, Leader of the House Chris Bishop says. “This Government promised to rebuild the economy, restore law and order and reduce the cost of living. Our record this ...4 days ago
- Consultation opens on working with engineered stone
“Accelerated silicosis is an emerging occupational disease caused by unsafe work such as engineered stone benchtops. I am running a standalone consultation on engineered stone to understand what the industry is currently doing to manage the risks, and whether further regulatory intervention is needed,” says Workplace Relations and Safety Minister ...4 days ago
- Greater reporting on Treaty settlement commitments
Mehemea he pai mō te tangata, mahia – if it’s good for the people, get on with it. Enhanced reporting on the public sector’s delivery of Treaty settlement commitments will help improve outcomes for Māori and all New Zealanders, Māori Crown Relations Minister Tama Potaka says. Compiled together for the ...4 days ago
- New appointments to the Charities Registration Board
Mr Roger Holmes Miller and Ms Tarita Hutchinson have been appointed to the Charities Registration Board, Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Louise Upston says. “I would like to welcome the new members joining the Charities Registration Board. “The appointment of Ms Hutchinson and Mr Miller will strengthen the Board’s capacity ...4 days ago
- Building consent processing times improve
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Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey is proud to announce the first three recipients of the Government’s $10 million Mental Health and Addiction Community Sector Innovation Fund which will enable more Kiwis faster access to mental health and addiction support. “This fund is part of the Government’s commitment to investing in ...4 days ago
- New Zealand to assist Vanuatu on earthquake response
New Zealand is providing Vanuatu assistance following yesterday's devastating earthquake, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says. "Vanuatu is a member of our Pacific family and we are supporting it in this time of acute need," Mr Peters says. "Our thoughts are with the people of Vanuatu, and we will be ...4 days ago
- Government takes steps to reduce card fees for Kiwis
The Government welcomes the Commerce Commission’s plan to reduce card fees for Kiwis by an estimated $260 million a year, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says.“The Government is relentlessly focused on reducing the cost of living, so Kiwis can keep more of their hard-earned income and live a ...5 days ago
- Review recommends ECE regulation shakeup
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The government has quietly cancelled plans to improve recycling and roll out a kerbside food scraps composting scheme. ...1 day ago
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Guests posts were an awesome idea.
Thanks, Robinsod, for producing what will surely to be only literary critique of Wishart’s joke of a book.
Might this be the first published review of Absolute Power?
Wow – thanks guys (even if your intro was a bit backhanded!) I’ve got another piece I’m writing entitled “The Peter Burns Project – Rabalasian Situationalism or Lone Nutter?” if you’re interested.
Where are all the righties I thought would be over here defending Wishart’s reputation? By the looks of it even they’ve give up on him…
Wow…. insightful review….good to see the typical attack the messenger mentality is still alive and well…can you refute any allegation made by Ian?
Luke’s right Sod – I hear Labour is rife with mafia connections and Helen Clark’s a lesbian. And that stuff about police officials from 16 years ago was truly riveting, and entirely relevant to a biography of Helen Clark.
“The most explosive political biography ever released in New Zealand”? Nah, Don Brash’s boiled peas and corned beef were more explosive than this poorly written tripe.
Tane….have you read the book at all?
Yeah, it’s fascinating. I read last night, twice, in the bath. Good to see it’s lived up to all the hype – I hear the leader of the Labour Party had to resign over the corruption it revealed… oh no hang on, that was the other guys wasn’t it?
Happy to defend the book. I started reading it last night – I have finished the second chapter. Wishart details the scheming and ruthlessness of Clark and her Government in respect of DooneGate.
There is no way you would ever write a postive review of a book that damns to Hell, Helen Clark and her senior Ministers (and Heather). Wishart has been thorough in his research, and presents the Doonegate sage with references to back his expose of the corrupt Labour Government.
I look forward to the rest of the book.
Hey Luke – I reviewed it as a piece of fiction because it is indeed a piece of fiction. If you doubt this just take a look at how many of his foot notes use words like “unproven” or “still under investigation”. “Refute any allegation”? What a joke.
Come to think of it Luke – I could say you have been secretly fucking pigs for years, footnote it as “still under investigation” and then ask you to refute it.
So Luke care to offer any evidence you have not been fucking pigs…
Corruption is a concern for every sane New Zealander. A country cannot be built on corruption. We must have political honesty – so we as a society can move forward for the best interests of all New Zealanders. Robinsod your review was pathetic – although you will feel like a pooh bah. Poor deluded chap.
Ever thought of treatment or therapy’s?
I agree with Monty, it is a well researched if somewhat difficult read (more to do with Wisharts writing style).
The revelations are interesting, I was not living in NZ at the time of the Doonegate affair and to find out now what really happened is somewhat concerning given the way dear corrupt leader has developed over the years, the warning signs were all there from day one.
She is clearly a very nasty piece of work, thankfully the public of NZ have woken up to her corrupt ways.
AP – you are a moron. We don’t live in a corrupt society. In fact we regularly rank in the top three for least corrupt countries. That’s the problem with fools like you boy, you don’t live in the real world. In fact it’s worse than that – you willfully spend time and energy convincing yourself everything is awful when it’s not. Here’s a tip – actively lying to yourself in order to make yourself feel even worse about the world is sick.
“So Luke care to offer any evidence you have not been fucking pigs ”
Robinsod, proudly bringing you the same joke since 1982.
Bruv – it’s not a difficult read it’s an awful read. Also see comment to AP above.
Note to self – do not engage with thick righties.
Robinsod,Wisharts allegations all have some basis…
Take the second to last chapter…care to offer and counter argument (with proof) that HC and Labours current social policy wasn’t influenced in a major way by the womens league?
or name-calling?
robinsod police headquarters in Wellington is very corrupt. The book outlines it and other examples from other credible sources convince both me that is the case.
You seem a hard case bloke, but surely you cannot defend police corruption and surely it is in the best interests of the country to have a police force that can relied on as a force of integrity and fairness.?
Helen Clark has manipulated the police for her own political means.
Its an awful read if you are a lying, corrupt Labour supporter or apologist I will give you that.
What it will show the people of NZ is that our media is useless, dear leader is corrupt and people like you have a selfish vested interest in keeping her in power.
I laughed my tea out my nose over this. You guys should make a “Robinsod reviews..” series. I’m sure there’s *lots* of stuff out there that would benefit from his unique rendering of reality.
The book is just as damning of the media as it is concerning police and politicians.
The public have a right to know the truth and no amount of spin can say that is wrong to enlighten the people who didn’t have a clue to all the shameful skullduggeries.
The media hasn’t even bothered to cover the book. Hollow Men brought on the resignation of Brash, Absolute Power can’t even get Granny Herald to pay attention.
robinsod police headquarters in Wellington is very corrupt. The book outlines it and other examples from other credible sources convince both me that is the case.
What it will show the people of NZ is that our media is useless, dear leader is corrupt and people like you have a selfish vested interest in keeping her in power.
Wisharts allegations all have some basis
See now that’s what I mean by Rabelasien. I really do think you folk are part of some strange performance art project (I call it the Peter Burns Project) and probably have significant arts funding to do what you’re doing. And I appreciate your art. I really, really do. I just don’t understand what point it is making.
Oh and Billy? I wouldn’t need to keep telling the same joke if fools like Wishart didn’t keep running the same boring pig-f**king arguments.
Steve, you forgot Stuff.co.nz’s coverage: Clark dismisses book by ‘creep’
speaking of art…. any evidence against paintergate and the cover up there?…. oh wait its easy just to call Wishart a nut job isn’t it?
Tane, thats pretty typical of Clark…as outlined in the book she hardly ever provides evidence against ANY allegation put up against the government… take the Enviroment Ministry scandal as an example… governments first move was to attack those involved.
Luke, I think what makes your lot a laughing stock is your insistence on harping back to irrelevant mini-scandals as if they have any meaning today.
I mean, who honestly gives a damn about whether Helen Clark signed someone else’s painting years ago for a charity auction? And why would you write a book about it now? There’s a lot Labour can be fairly criticised for after eight and a half years in government, but Wishart’s completely off-target and off-message.
I almost feel sorry for him, he’s obviously put a lot of time and effort into this and all he’s got to show for it is a half-hearted defence from the Kiwiblog Right.
Tane, if paintergate was a one off i would agree with you….however add on corngate, speedogate, doonegate….seeing a common ground here? Labour has trouble with the truth at appears.
Luke – You forgot gategate, gategategate and the fiasco that was gategategategate. I’m certainly seeing common ground here. Perhaps we could bundle them all into Lukegate.
P.S. Gate.
Oh my god! Captcha is “complain become” – it’s like the right’s philosophy of being has finally been revealed! I whinge therefore I am…
I haven’t been paying much attention to “Absolute Power” due to some particularly inane comments; I thought it was a manifestation of some other commentators I’ll forgo mentioning. Are you guys now saying there’s an entire book out by a person with the literary skill to inflict us all with horrors such as ‘shameful skullduggeries‘ and ‘Ever thought of treatment or therapy’s‘? I won’t even start on ‘convince both me that is the case‘…
Tell me this is some kind of joke.
Matt: I’m not sure whether our commenter Absolute Power is Ian Wishart, or just wishes he was. Either way it’s pretty sad.
The media hasn’t even bothered to cover the book. Hollow Men brought on the resignation of Brash, Absolute Power can’t even get Granny Herald to pay attention.
Aye Steve. I took a stroll down memory lane to compare the reception of The Hollow Men vs Absolute Power.
The Hollow Men
There was plenty of pre-publication coverage, including the full text of the preface by ex National MP Marilyn Waring:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10411765
The book had huge pre-orders in major bookshops, and of course the day it was published (Friday November 24 2006) it was the main news story:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=10412115
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=10412282
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL0611/S00418.htm
And of course, the allegations contained in the book were so irrefutable and so damaging that they ended Don Brash’s political career:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=10412121
Now let’s compare that with…
Absolute Power
I was going to say nothing nada zip, but that’s not quite true, it did get a mention in an article about the Police Commissioner:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10505173
I hope all those that rushed out and paid for their copy feel they got value for money!
Don’t worry MP – I’m pretty certain it’s some kind of convoluted cultural project. I expect it to be presented at the next Venice bienalle though after et al’s braying dunny piece a few years ago they may start thinking we are an artistic one-trick-pony…
The habit of labelling every mini-scandal ‘x-gate’, no matter how minor or whether it has any similarities to Watergate, is the single worst aspect of New Zealand political debate, except for Peter Dunne.
So unimaginative, so bloody cliche. And it doesn’t even make any sense – the Watergate is the name of the hotel that republican operatives broke into to steal democratic party information. The ‘-gate’ suffix has nothing to do with the fact that this was a scandal (that brought down Nixon). So why the hell do we end scandals in ‘-gate’?
Steve, probably because if you kept banging on about “that time Helen Clark’s car went really fast to get a rugby match on time” you’d be laughed out of the political debate?
Tane,
I mean, who honestly gives a damn about whether Helen Clark signed someone else’s painting years ago for a charity auction?
It goes to character and judgement. To think it was OK to do such a thing raises serious questions about someone’s character and judgement, IMHO.
I lived overseas at the time and was gobsmacked when I heard about it.
Now, of course all politicians do silly things from time to time, as Luke has mentioned (and Ian has tried to compile into his book). But when that person is the sitting PM, it makes me sit up and take notice. And certainly remember it on election day.
Regarding the time lapse between an action and the ongoing fallout, one could make the same claim about some people’s infatuation with John Key’s views on the Springbok tour. That’s 27 years ago.
It goes to character and judgement
Does it indeed. So Scribe, what do you make of the character and judgement of a politician who uses their political clout and connections to management to silence a working journalist?
Scribe- the issue isn’t about what Key thought 27 years ago, it’s the fact he can’t get his story straight now.
So why the hell do we end scandals in ‘-gate’?
This is typical of the way that languages just kinda happen. Though I agree that it’s a pretty annoying example!
Brian Edwards: “But is it possible to be totally honest in politics?”
Helen Clark: “It’s possible never to tell a lie.”
Yeah right.
The international leaders’ legacy of shame:
Bush, Blair, Howard – Iraq.
Clark – a painting.
Oh, New Zealand, how did we LET THIS HAPPEN? How can you all SLEEP AT NIGHT? It’s like … somebody’s feelings might have been HURT! That’s just like bombing thousands of people and KILLING them ALL! It’s EVIL! Our leader makes me SICK! Where is my MEDICAYSHUN oh god oh god …
Brian Edwards: “But is it possible to be totally honest in politics?’
Helen Clark: “It’s possible never to tell a lie.’
Yeah right.
I love that touch – the tui “yeah right” has been so thrashed by mainstream New Zealand that it’s only the very fringes that would employ it without a sense of irony. And yet you do exactly that AP. The genius you show in working that level of detail into your banality shtick is staggering.
Historian
Perhaps you should spread your net more widely and look at Mugabe, Kim Jong iL and their like in the hall of shame.
While I realise it’s fashionable to take the Mickey out of Bush, Blair and Howard they are not in the same league as the real despots.
Captcha ordinance patients.
Very apt with the arms shipments from China into Zimbabwe.
Sod – you sure are an esoteric toss-pot, but an entertaining one at that. In any case, thanks for finding my next two novels to paw through (neither of them include “absolute paranoia”).
Staggering that I fail too understand your point robinsod? Oh that’s right, Labour good National bad. Dam it, just can’t resist this review of yours, as that would have to be an irreproachable presumption of fact I presume?
Are you still learning the art of language?
r0b,
So Scribe, what do you make of the character and judgement of a politician who uses their political clout and connections to management to silence a working journalist?
[I will respond on the assumption that the allegation is true]
Well, I’d think that he’s within his rights to make such advances and the newspaper/editor/publisher that succumbs to such advances is an embarrassment to the journalistic profession. (Speaking as a working journalist)
James,
Scribe- the issue isn’t about what Key thought 27 years ago, it’s the fact he can’t get his story straight now.
Mike Williams can’t get his story straight 27 hours after the event, so it just goes to show that politicians — and people involved in politics — often duck and weave and bob.
The fact of the matter is Key is probably better than some politicians and worse than others when it comes to integrity/character/trustworthiness etc.
No Higher Standard only HELEN KLARK is like Mugabe it says so on the billboards and the blogs they speak the TRUTH she is Corupt and much worse than ANY Leader in the WORLD except one or two or many or most or maybe all of them where is my MEDICAYSHUN oh god oh god …
Roger – no worries. I reckon you’ll like pale fire the most.
AP – I don’t recall mentioning either Labour or National in my review. Perhaps you need to get you reading comprehension up to speed. I’d offer to school you some more but I’m getting so very bored of it…
AP:
I thought it was well understood that Wishart is nothing more than a paranoid idiot? The guy’s favorite line is “according to a source that has requested to not be named” – any person that doesn’t discount that straight off just has a problem with logic – or their desire to believe has over-powered their critical faculties? Do you understand now?
Robinsod thank you for the kind offer of schooling but I don’t like pre school much. Are you as thick as a brick? Please don’t answer me. Thank you.
One could argue that the Labourites are not honest people who have retained the penchant for abusive invective and a zest for character assassinations.
Ha! that’s right AP. Thick as. Not all smart and right like you is. Just keep telling yourself that bro and I’m sure the spiders won’t come for you again…
AP: ‘One could argue that the Labourites are not honest people who have retained the penchant for abusive invective and a zest for character assassinations.’
Earlier: AP to Robinsod: ‘Poor deluded chap. Ever thought of treatment or therapy’s?’
Voting Labour, eh AP?
Captcha: supportive as
No doubt those who bother to read this book will find whatever they want within it’s pages for those who vilify Helen Clark it will confirm their vilification for those that believe she’s a good Prime Minister there will be nothing of any merit.
Will this book do anything to convince voters one way or another, I have not read it, but I doubt it very much.
Those of fixed political leanings will continue to vote as they have always done while the swinging voters who decide the election will be more motivated to vote in relation to the state of their finances and standard of living and who they believe will offer them better opportunities over the next four years.
Fucking get back to work sod, the rest of us are paying your wages and we expect a decent days work out of you.
This review really took me back.
The last time I remember a reviewer including a mention of every other book they had read in their report was Jenny Watkins review of “Curious George” back in prima two.
A truly immpresive feat.
Anybody who reads this book and then goes and votes Labour are condoning widespread corruption.
Anybody who reads this book and then goes and votes Labour are condoning widespread corruption.
You’re dead right there AP. No hold on… I just checked the endnotes and that claim is “still under investigation”. Better take a raincheck on that opinion buddy.
Oh and Joker? That’s really clever. And I mean that. I really do.
I would like to nominate the following quote, apparently Wishart on Wishart, for an award of some kind. I’m open to suggestions as to what kind of award might be appropriate:
This little gem appears on the page:
http://davegee.blogspot.com/2008/03/ian-wishart-investigates-power-hungry.html
(Note that the only mention of books in the EFA is to exclude them as examples of election advertisements Part 1 Section 5 (2) (e).)
Absolute Power, I have a News Flash: The Labour Party Eats Babies. Literally*.
If you read my post, and then go on to vote Labour, you are condoning the widespread consumption of babies.
*claim still under investigation
Matthew Pilott, that is so witless I just smacked my face with a wet bus ticket.
Mat
I have already confirmed that it’s John Key and the National party that eats babies, surely Labour aren’t copying this policy.
Appears you are getting as bored with the mindless attacks from either side as myself we can only hope for some rational debate at some stage. (A vain hope probably)
“I have already confirmed that it’s John Key and the National party that eats babies, surely Labour aren’t copying this policy.”
It’s all part of a shameful drive to occupy the centre ground.
I blame the baby-eating swing voters…
Absolute Power – that doesn’t make sense on any level. Did you know that a ‘slap on the wrist with a wet bus ticket’ is an allusion to a punishment considered too lenient in comparison to the offence? If so, why the face and not the wrist? Is this trying to make a weak punishment more severe? Granted, it would be marginally less pleasant, and perhaps more degrading if administered in front of a suitably large group, but other than that… And why would you administer a metaphorically weak punishment upon yourself due to a percieved ‘witless’ comment of mine? Shouldn’t you be slapping me with said bus ticket? On a medium such as this you can say you’re doing it without the requirement to physically administer the act, you could have gone with that angle… Or are you doing so in recognition that your original argument was such a fantastic non sequitur that philosophy text books from time immemorial to infinity may use it as an example? If so, I think you deserve more that a wet bus ticket slapping. Even if cranially self-administered.
higherstandard – probably not on this thread 😉
So the credibility of the source has nothing to do with it? We know Hagar’s source is a criminal hacker or thief, whereas Wishart obviously wont name his (unless legally compelled to).
If anyone says they would not be embarrassed by something in their personal emails then they are lying (or confused)
I’m sure Robinsod wouldn’t like anything to be disclosed in his interest in fucking pigs, (and asking Luke if he does it too)
MP
Perhaps tomorrow I hear National have released some policy around Broadband etc which should be worth debating once I’ve seen it – surprisingly quite at work today expected it to be a fiasco with the JD’s striking, touch wood it’ll stay quite for the next 24-48 hours.
eventually it will find its way like its magazine infestedmate into the family shop pile of free books and if I’ve got a few spare minutes I will tear the pages out of the cover, roll them them up and make artificial LOGS for the fire with it. At present I am reading several other books with more content in the cover flaps than anything I have ever read by wishart and I dont believe anything has changed. He seems intent of letting the average kiwi view himas a congenital idiot so I will not get in the way of his lifework.
As for people who read wishart and then promote him they seem to be lowbrows with low iq’s and low opinions of their fellow man and see their mission as domination of anyone unfortunate enough to fall within their purview.
Jon – that interest has already been disclosed:
http://newzblog.wordpress.com/2008/01/21/pig-fucking/
And I can tell you that unlike Luke’s it is strictly professional…
HS – hope it all goes well! – it’s hard to get a handle on that dispute actually, and what would consitute a reasonable demand/offer…
There was something on Stuff about broadband today, or maybe the Herald. 1.5 Billion for a fibre-optic rollout maybe. I have an f-o connection – it’s good, but not quite the ducks’ nuts…
Cap: Platz Outreach – I must be watching The Scorpions’ Wind of Change!
I don’t think the book could be any worse than Robinsod’s review!
The sad thing is that yes it is indeed worse that my review. And considerably so. It also contains less facts (despite having considerably more words in it) and isn’t as funny. In fact I may yet contact Wishart’s publisher to ask them if they would be interested in signing me for a four-book deal.
Guys, read back through Absolute Power’s comments while pondering Dad4Justice’s writing style, cleaned up to disguise the author. Just a thought.
My compliments to the commentators. After I saw this post go up this morning, I was fully expecting to have to be heavy-handed with lots of bold and black sometime during the day.
I wasn’t looking forward to it as I have a bit too much code to do at present. But the comments didn’t step too far over the edge.
But I didn’t have to waste my time once. And I didn’t see any of the moderators having to do it either.
The only problem I have is with the steadily growing size of the 5 backups the site sends to my home server every morning. They ran out to 9:32 this morning which means that they ran for over 4 hours. I’ll have to move them to start earlier or get some more bandwidth….
I hear John Key is going to bring fibre to your home Lynn – that ought to sort it (for a while!).
Ah but is it at a price I can afford.
Mind you it wasn’t that long ago that I had 2 ISDN’s in here (about 1997 ?). That replaced the 4 phone lines that I multiplexed a link to the net with.
I was really glad to get my first ADSL router – Nokia M1100 (I think that was the number) in 2001 according to the service sticker. Coughs as he hauls it out from under the desk and brushes the dust off. My comms bill went down quite a lot.
What were you doing with so much bandwidth so long ago? No need to answer – rhetorical question – but that’s pretty hardcore geek!
“Tane, if paintergate was a one off i would agree with you .however add on corngate, speedogate, doonegate”
Yes, I see it too. They all contain the word “gate”. Good spotting.
I encourage people to read the comments here:
http://poneke.wordpress.com/2008/04/28/wish-2/
Not often I agree with Billy. But if you have the time, there’s lot’s going on in that thread.