Cadenza

While transcribing the previous item I was reminded of a stylistic point that went through my mind during the debate: it’s difficult to understand Stephen Harper, not because of what he says but because of how he says it. He’s got a stereotypically Shatneresque speaking rhythm, pausing at odd times during sentences and emphasizing words apparently at random, and I find his cadence very hard to follow.

I don’t know if it adds to my troubles understanding him, but to quote Antonia Zerbisias, the eyes don’t smile with the mouth. Those half-expressions are unsettling.