"Beware the politically obsessed. They are often bright and interesting, but they have something missing in their natures; there is a hole, an empty place, and they use politics to fill it up. It leaves them somehow misshapen"

Peggy Noonan's quote warns versus engaging too deeply in political fascination, recommending it can result in an incomplete or distorted personal development. The warning is not against political interest itself but the potential overconsumption of one's identity by politics. Noonan acknowledges that politically obsessed individuals are frequently intelligent and interesting, hinting at the allure and complexity of political discourse which can attract brilliant minds. Yet, the core concern revealed in the quote is that these people may be compensating for a personal space, using politics as a surrogate to meet unmet requirements or an absence of function in other life areas.

The imagery of "a hole, an empty location" suggests an emotional or existential shortage. Politics, with its engaging stories, ideological battles, and sense of purpose, can be a luring treatment for this emptiness. It offers a framework through which individuals can discover neighborhood, identity, and recognition. Nevertheless, Noonan indicates that this reliance can be destructive, leading to a "misshapen" self. This word choice connotes a distortion or imbalance, suggesting that an overemphasis on political identity may overshadow other crucial aspects of a well-rounded life, such as personal relationships, hobbies, or self-reflection.

The quote motivates a balanced approach, advising people to engage with politics without losing themselves completely to it. It functions as a pointer of the significance of keeping a diverse set of interests and values outside the political sphere. By doing so, individuals can make sure personal growth and fulfillment that are neither contingent upon nor restricted to political paradigms. In essence, Noonan inspires readers to cultivate a nuanced identity that recognizes the significance of politics however does not allow it to be the sole filler of their existential spaces.