The Nation: Now Hear This, Freaks

In 1968, it was the "Clean for Gene" syndrome—McCarthy's young legions getting themselves barbered and laundered lest too countercultural an appearance frighten off the more conventional citizenry. This year some of George McGovern's youthful volunteers are practicing the same Dale Carnegie tactics. Some of those who are not are getting themselves set straight. In Wisconsin, for example, McGovern headquarters mailed out instructions to some 70 state schools and universities. "Guys who canvass," said the memo, "should try to look halfway decent. Every freak must have at least a pair of slacks and a shirt. Similar for chicks. We have to play...