You’re right, of course, on the meaning of schadenfruede. I can’t believe that I wrote that entire over-blown column and didn’t think to use it. It’s a close second to doppelganger as my favorite German word.

And for what it’s worth, I too find pleasure in the Cubs perpetual flailing about in the National League.

I agree that the subject’s family ties had a lot to do with him being featured in the IT. But if the system is as screwed up as you claim, and I don’t doubt that it is, maybe the publicity that can generated from a celebrity case will shed light on the problem and lead to some reforms. (I hesitate to say celebrity but I suppose that it is apt, in a provincial sort of way.) I also think that the timing of the article is a clear indication that the IT’s primary intent wasn’t to harm the subject’s brother, but to influence the scumbag’s sentencing, which came down this week. Unfortunately, it didn’t seem to work.

Anyway, what can you tell me about the “destiny controlled codes” that the first commentor on this thread is going on about?

Although I do not care much for the target of the article I found the slant to be offensive. It insinuates that there is a system-wide “fix” in on protecting Mr. Redpath. I have news for anyone who has not had to delve into the American criminal justice system…it be bad. As dysfunctional as Mr. Redpath is the CJS is just as screwed up. It works in spite of itself.

And if the author is so inclined, I am sure he can easily find many similar stories of how the CJS has failed without the target being a relative of a recently announced candidate for State office. But I guess that would not make it quite so interesting now would it?

I believe the Germans call that “Schadenfreude.” And yes, it always makes me feel better to see bad things happen to say… the Chicago Cubs.