There is a type of person who thinks that being cunning, clever, cute and politically adept is a good thing. That negotiation, arguing the toss, winning an argument and getting a deal are things to be sought out. Some love the argy-bargy of deals and contracts. It is clear that in some circles “deals” are only temporary and cannot be relied upon. No Trump deal is reliable and fixed for example. They are subject to whim and revision.

Some think that this “mental” clever approach is good. In the Godfather sense they wish to make people offers they cannot refuse and imagine that everyone likes a deal, particularly their deal.

They do not think that contracts are in fact binding spells to be enforced by the sorcery of courts, people in fancy dress with wigs and gavels enact ritual magic. There are incantations and recitations of spell.

They imagine that deals can always be struck…they are like Mephisto.

They may make plans for other individuals without consulting them. They imagine eager acceptance. That people want to join their club or gang. That they, the very epicentre of the universe, are irresistible.

They do not expect, “I am disinclined to acquiesce to your request..”, as an answer.

People think they know best what is good for others, they may take pity on them. They may invent all sorts of cunning plans and ideas. They may organize blind dates or to try to fix them up with a job. Most of all those who plan for others think they know best…they are adamantly omniscient…

In my eyes cunning is not a compliment. It means manipulative, self-centred, self-advancing and often greedy.

Cunning is in fact evil…

If you like being cunning then you are enamoured and tempted by evil…

You favour the underhand and secret over the open and honest…

You like the dark side…

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Place your bets…