"It is nice and convenient, I think, when words have meaning. It makes it easier to order a sandwich. When words are more of a suggestion, reality evaporates at your touch, and none of your rights is secure. Good luck getting a sandwich then! . . . Their meaning melts like hot wax, and homeland security becomes an unmarked car slamming into your neighbor." Brilliant satire by Alexandra Petri. Gift article. https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/2026/10/congratulations-great-humanitarian-vladimir-putin/689111/?gift=L-LMPEH6Cbrzkm-6jZ5NvC5hCAweqlGv-WlRj-mGSYk&utm_source=copy-link&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=share