the politicians who popilate official washington come from countries and cities and hick town and the 4-h leaders and the rebles and critics and they share a common sense of mission. all here to have an impact on the national affairs and eager to leave a mark on the desire to be present and all hope to leave evidence of their work. their failures and triumphs are human. they are drawn to washington, as i was, by the beckoning arena. some come to do combat over policy, many want to save the world and others stay to make money. some acquire issues and adopt causes as an end to a means. plotomeic fever is what they call it. their story end badly. always. the individuals and institutions they serve suffer as well. others seek power to advance their chosen cause and each share the illusion that washington for a time is the center of the universe thch. we feel called to washington to engage. it is an irresistable call to public service. one fuelled by equal parts of ego and alterism. the book is a personal point of vi view. and as my kids point out it is awkwa awkwardly personal at times. h