Swordcraft

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swordcraft
/sɔːdkrɑːft/ (Also “swordsmanship” (archaic)) (n.)

Adeptness with the tools, and enculturation in the ethics, of the great martial art of negotiation.

Understand “swordcraft,” here, as a technique in an infinite game. It does not manifest as outright hostile behaviour — that would be guncraft: that has no place in a negotiation, unless you are ending it — rather swordcraft is a technical, impressive and beautiful but above all constructive dance: a theatrical demonstration of skill, balance, movement and technique intended not to win but to convey excellence: subject-matter expertise, concern for one’s own position and commitment to the forthcoming partnership.

Negotiation is a form of courtship ritual.