Stephane Dion

I think the man needs to learn some poker. Not that I know any. But some people recommend it for just these situations. I'm sure David Mamet would urge it upon him.

Here's a line for him, from Henry V:

We would not seek a battle as we are,
yet as we are, we say we will not shun it.


Of course he may not want to use this line, as it is the English taunting the French, after all. But the sentiment and style are what's called for.

He needs to remind Mr. Harper that Canadians have elected a parliament in which every party is a minority -- that nevertheless Canadians expect the parties to co-operate in governing the country -- and that it is the height of arrogance to declare that bills offered by his government are complete, perfect, unalterable, irreplaceable and desperate necessities of our country. He should also remind Mr. Harper that it is not in his power to call an election; only the Governor-General may do so; and if Her Majesty's Representative sees fit to call on him, Stephane Dion, he would gladly attempt to form a government that can govern the country by making astute compromises with the other parties in parliament; yes, even Mr. Harper's.

Anyway, that's how I imagine a game of poker being played. But it's possible I am thinking of chess.