An optimist is a man who has never had much experience. For the poor things would have other idols in place of those he thwacketh upon the mazzard and dispelleth. An iconoclast is deservingly given the title reflecting the appreciation of the people. His commitment to the breaking of idols shields them from the consequence had they been so inspired. The scolds of this world are the result of a cross between an iconoclast and a curmudgeon.
Scolds are always women.
No one is better representative of this class than Senator Barbara Mikulski. Baltimore can do no better. She's short, dumpy, overweight, and Polish, a fearsome sight. Most of the time her diatribes from Austin can be ignored as just so much blather, however, at times she reveals her true colors with her attacks. Maverick defended anti-Vietnam draft dodgers in the 60's, having earned his stripes defending Communist during the 1950's.