Meaning: The quote you provided is from Michael Ignatieff, a Canadian author, academic, and former politician. In this quote, he is discussing the impact of media on the mindset and behavior of politicians and public figures. Ignatieff suggests that these individuals are constantly focused on media coverage and public access, to the extent that it consumes their thoughts and actions around the clock. He also highlights the issue of constant "spinning" for media attention, implying that this behavior can become problematic.

In today's media-driven society, the influence and impact of media on politics and public figures cannot be overstated. The quote reflects the intense pressure that politicians and public figures face in terms of media scrutiny and the constant need for visibility and positive coverage.

The phrase "absolutely media, day and night" captures the all-encompassing nature of the media's influence on the lives of politicians and public figures. It suggests that their thoughts and actions are consistently shaped and guided by the demands and pressures of the media landscape. This can lead to a relentless focus on maintaining a favorable public image and ensuring continuous media exposure.

Ignatieff's mention of "access" as being central to the concerns of these individuals speaks to the importance of media access and visibility in modern politics. In an era where information is disseminated rapidly through various media channels, securing access to these platforms becomes a critical aspect of maintaining relevance and influence. Politicians and public figures often engage in strategic efforts to ensure that their messages and actions are portrayed in a favorable light by the media.

The reference to "spinning 24 hours a day" underscores the constant effort and energy expended by politicians and public figures to manage their public image and control the narrative surrounding their actions. The term "spinning" typically conveys the idea of shaping or manipulating information to achieve a desired effect, and in the context of media relations, it highlights the performative aspect of engaging with the media.

However, Ignatieff also suggests that this relentless focus on media and public image can be problematic. The pressures of constantly seeking media attention and managing one's public persona can take a toll on individuals, potentially leading to a lack of authenticity or genuine connection with the public. Moreover, the pervasive influence of media can overshadow substantive policy discussions and meaningful engagement with important issues, emphasizing style over substance.

In conclusion, Michael Ignatieff's quote sheds light on the pervasive influence of media in the lives of politicians and public figures. It underscores the intense pressure to constantly engage with the media, shape public perceptions, and maintain a positive image. While media access and visibility are crucial in today's political landscape, the quote also highlights the potential downsides of this media-centric focus, including the risk of authenticity and substantive discussions being sidelined in favor of performative media strategies.