Thumbtacks in your shoe are overkill, though. They're fine…
““Thumbtacks in your shoe are overkill, though. They're fine for super-macho super-spies for whom a punctured toe is a badge of honor. But if you ever need to beat a polygraph, just pucker up -- your butt, that is. Squeezing and releasing your butt-hole recruits many major muscle- and nerve groups, gets a lot of blood flowing, and makes you look like you're at least as nervous as a liar, when all you're doing are some rhythmic bum-squeezes. As a side bonus, do it enough and you will have BUNS OF STEEL.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Exaggerated physical tricks like butt‑squeezing can mimic nervousness, but are impractical for polygraph evasion; humorously suggests building strong glutes.
In simple terms: Squeezing your butt mimics nervousness but isn’t a real polygraph hack.
Use humor to relieve stress, not as a serious tactic.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- stressful interview
- public speaking
- performance anxiety
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Are there healthier ways to manage interview stress?
- What role does humor play in coping?
Physical tricks may be ineffective or embarrassing.