Meaning: This quote, attributed to John Diefenbaker, a Canadian statesman and politician, uses a metaphor to describe the elusive and unpredictable nature of the Liberal Party in politics. By likening the Liberals to "flying saucers," Diefenbaker suggests that they are enigmatic, mysterious, and difficult to comprehend. Furthermore, the comparison to flying saucers, which are often associated with extraterrestrial phenomena and are commonly perceived as fleeting and ephemeral, emphasizes the idea that the Liberals are inscrutable and ever-changing.

John Diefenbaker was a prominent figure in Canadian politics, serving as the 13th Prime Minister of Canada from 1957 to 1963. Throughout his career, Diefenbaker was known for his colorful and expressive language, and this quote exemplifies his penchant for using vivid imagery to convey his perspectives on political matters.

In the context of Canadian politics, the quote reflects the perception of the Liberal Party as a dynamic and unpredictable force. The Liberal Party of Canada has a long and storied history, and its ideologies and policies have evolved over time, often adapting to changing societal norms and political landscapes. This adaptability and willingness to embrace change have led to the party being viewed as enigmatic and ever-shifting, much like the elusive nature of flying saucers.

The comparison to flying saucers also implies a sense of novelty and intrigue. In the realm of politics, the Liberals are often seen as trendsetters, introducing new ideas and initiatives that capture public attention and curiosity. This perception aligns with the notion that flying saucers represent the unknown and the cutting edge, contributing to the party's image as an entity that defies easy categorization and understanding.

Additionally, the quote conveys a sense of transience and unpredictability. Flying saucers are famously associated with fleeting appearances and sudden disappearances, and this characteristic aligns with the notion that the Liberals are ever-changing and elusive in their political positioning. The party's ability to shift its stance on various issues and adapt to different circumstances has contributed to its reputation as a political entity that cannot be easily pinned down.

Moreover, the reference to never being seen twice in the same place suggests a lack of permanence and consistency. This aspect of the quote speaks to the perception that the Liberal Party's political trajectory is marked by continual shifts and transformations, making it challenging for observers to anticipate its next moves or discern a consistent pattern in its actions.

Overall, Diefenbaker's quote serves as a colorful and evocative commentary on the elusive and unpredictable nature of the Liberal Party in the context of Canadian politics. By employing the metaphor of flying saucers, he captures the sense of mystery, novelty, and unpredictability that surrounds the party, reflecting the perceptions and attitudes that have shaped its image over time.

In summary, John Diefenbaker's quote about the Liberals as the "flying saucers of politics" encapsulates the enigmatic, ever-changing, and unpredictable nature of the Liberal Party in Canadian politics. The metaphorical comparison to flying saucers conveys a sense of mystery, novelty, and transience, reflecting the party's reputation for adaptability, innovation, and unpredictability.