How much do I love Boston Legal? On tonight's show, Alan Shore's secretary Melissa is arrested for not paying her taxes. Not only that, she sent in her form with a note that said, "Stick it!" Why? Because her grandfather fought in WWII and he related to her how proud he was of his country. She was very close to him and felt he would be totally appalled by what is going on with our government right now. Alan wants to plea bargain for her but she wants her day in court. She wants to stand up for what she believes in.
This leads to a showdown between a prosecutor who claims that Melissa is unAmerican--a coward, even--to refuse to pay her taxes during wartime and Alan with his inimitable style. In his closing statement, he says he felt sure that when the WMD farce was revealed, Americans would rise up. When the torture at Abu Graibh and the "technique" of rendition came to light, that Americans would protest. Or finally, when it was learned that our government was spying on its own people, that someone would finally notice. It seemed to him that no one noticed--no one but Melissa. So, if she wanted to protest, why not go about it the traditional way and make a sign and attend a presidential or vice-presidential event? Because we're no longer allowed to do that. He quotes Adlai Stevenson, saying it is far easier to fight for principles than to live up to them. We're all afraid, he continues, but the Bill of Rights has to live up to that.
Who writes for this show?! They rock!
Unfortunately, the jury returns a verdict of guilty. After his bullying, the prosecutor said that it came down to the fact that Melissa did not pay her taxes. I guess they agreed, but the blustering judge who looked like a member of the greatest generation fines her only $1000 (she owed $400 in taxes plus interest) and gave her 30 days suspended.
Later, Alan reflects on the case with Denny and cigars on the patio. Denny thinks he must be disappointed about losing but Alan says it was an empiric victory. "Suddenly you're in favor of emperors?" Denny asks. "That's all he wants to be." The "he" being referred to is left unspoken but I can guess who's meant. I'm sure you can, too. Alan goes on to say that he misses our country's compassion, our soul and our humility. We're becoming a mean people, he says. He ends with a quote from Judge Learned Hand: Liberty lies in the hearts of men and women. When it dies there, no constitution, no law, no court can save it.
Why are we only getting messages like this from fictional television shows? At least any American with their butts on the couch at 10 pm could have seen it. If you're in a later time zone, be sure and tune in!