Kabuki, via the ever-reliable Wikipedia:

Nearly every full-length play would be performed in five acts, the first one corresponding to jo, an auspicious and slow opening which introduces the audience to the characters and the plot. The next three acts would correspond to ha, speeding events up, culminating almost always in a great moment of drama or tragedy in the third act and possibly a battle in the second and/or fourth acts. The final act, corresponding to kyu, is almost always very short, providing a quick and satisfying conclusion.

So, if Petraeus and Bush can show optimism despite all evidence suggesting such optimism is unfounded (ponies notwithstanding), then I can go all give-them-the-benefit-of-the-doubt on the bit and speculate that the Dems have actually played it brilliantly, at least this fall.  Read more