Let me preface this comment by saying I'm am sooo glad Barack Obama beat out old man McCain. I think he's one of the best men we've sent to the presidency in years. But be that as it may, I couldn't help but dissect Cohen's lyric about Manson -- and, sadly, it could prove to be even more insightful than this story hints at.

Manson, a clearly insane man, was a racist who believed by murdering people in LA he would start a race war in which the blacks would win. The blacks would take over power as a result. But later, they would find the couldn't lead effectively and look to a great white man to lead the way -- namely Manson.

Now I believe Obama has what it takes to be a good leader, but he is taking the helm at a time when the system could very well fail. And if he does the things he needs to -- i.e., totally altering our unsustainable economy -- in order to keep the system going, there are still going to be negative, painful ramifications.

It's almost a losing situation for Obama. And after his likely difficulties, "all the lousy little poets trying to sound like Charlie Manson" (the racists) will use poor Obama's trials to further their racist agenda, saying he can't lead effectively because he's black.

The next thing you know, some right-wing white guy will get elected.

Please, Leonard, tell me I don't sound like Charlie Manson.