Seth Meyers has categorized several variation of the non-apology, where someone is forced to say he’s sorry, but finds a way to apologize while absolving himself, and laying the blame at your feet instead. This, students is the “Sorry! Not Sorry!” form of apology, and the current political news is full of it. The first variation is heard often.
“I’m sorry…But also you can kind of see how it wasn’t my fault, right?”
This apology was used to good effect by the Trump supporter and bully who brutally pushed a young black woman out of a rally, he continues:
“This was a very unfortunate incident and it is my sincere hope that I can be forgiven for my actions.” (Also, please don’t sue me. I thought Donald Trump meant it when he said he’d defend us.)
Notice how the supporter masterfully turns the apology to show that it wasn’t his fault: “People in the crowd began pushing and shoving the protesters.” “At one point I was physically knocked down and fell to the ground, losing my jacket…”
Seth translates: ” I’m sorry I did that racist thing, but you guys – I just lost my jacket! And that jacket meant the world to me, it was given to me by a white person! “
Other forms of the twisted apology are described in the video in great and humorous detail. They include: “I’m sorry that you misunderstood me.” Remember the Idaho sheriff who claimed most rape calls were a result of consensual sex?”
“I’m sorry if you were offended.” John Kasich said women left their kitchens to vote for him, once. He nicely demonstrates a great followup.” I’m sorry…But you should know I have (insert insulted democratic here) friends.”
“I’m sorry…No matter how many times I apologize for this, you’re not going to make me apologize again.” Hillary Clinton
Most unusual apology goes to Brian Earl Taylor at his sentencing in Michigan. Taylor sang “I’m Sorry” by Adele, and no one even looked up from their phones.