Meaning: The quote by Frank Rich, a well-known journalist and writer, reflects on the repetitive and often predictable behavior of politicians. Rich conveys a sense of weariness and frustration with the consistent performance of politicians, implying that their actions and statements become monotonous and tiresome over time. This sentiment is relatable to many individuals who closely follow political events and are exposed to the recurring patterns of behavior exhibited by politicians.

Rich's use of the word "tedious" suggests a feeling of boredom and ennui that arises from the repetitive nature of political discourse. The act of parsing, or analyzing and interpreting, the actions and words of politicians becomes a laborious task when it feels like they are engaging in the same behaviors and rhetoric repeatedly. This sentiment may resonate with those who closely follow political news and commentary, as they may experience a sense of disillusionment and fatigue from the recurring dynamics of political communication.

The reference to "the sort of masquerade" alludes to the idea that politicians may be engaging in a performance or charade, projecting a certain image or narrative that remains consistent regardless of the changing facts or circumstances. This notion highlights the perceived lack of authenticity in political behavior, as politicians adhere to a scripted or rehearsed approach that does not necessarily reflect the evolving realities of the issues they address. This observation underscores the skepticism and distrust that can arise when political figures appear to prioritize the maintenance of a facade over genuine engagement with the complexities of the issues they confront.

Rich's assertion that "the facts change from week to week" acknowledges the dynamic and evolving nature of the political landscape. However, he juxtaposes this acknowledgment with the observation that the behavior of politicians remains stagnant, creating a dissonance between the fluidity of facts and the rigidity of political performance. This disjunction may contribute to a sense of disillusionment and cynicism among those who observe the political arena, as the disconnect between changing realities and unchanging political rhetoric becomes increasingly apparent.

Overall, Rich's quote encapsulates a sentiment of frustration and fatigue with the repetitive nature of political discourse. It speaks to the challenge of navigating a landscape where the performance of politicians can feel disconnected from the evolving facts and complexities of the issues they address. By expressing this sentiment, Rich sheds light on the enduring challenge of maintaining engagement and critical analysis in the face of recurring political dynamics.

In conclusion, Frank Rich's quote encapsulates a poignant reflection on the repetitive nature of political behavior and rhetoric. It conveys a sense of weariness and frustration with the consistent performance of politicians, highlighting the disconnect between evolving facts and unchanging political masquerades. This sentiment resonates with individuals who closely follow political events and confront the challenge of parsing the predictable actions and statements of politicians. Rich's quote serves as a reminder of the enduring need for critical engagement and discernment in the realm of political discourse.