The son grew up in a home with gaslights and an outdoor privy. He learned to love nature with intense passion. Then he was home-schooled by his mom and took to books with equal fervor. He catapulted to Phillips Exeter Academy, Harvard and Yale Law School - while publishing American Prospect articles dissecting the national psyche. With the release of his book, most critics are awed by his intellect and insights.
Jaded people are quick to scoff, slow to dedicate themselves to improving the human condition.
The wisecrack is the national norm. He's right, of course. There's too much irony, too little trust. But there's another side to consider. I'm old enough to be Purdy's grandfather, and I'd like to coach him on the realities he will encounter as he matures.