In "Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House," Michael Wolff presents an intriguing analysis of Donald Trump's relationship with media and communication. He describes Trump as "postliterate-total television," suggesting that the former president's understanding and engagement with information have evolved beyond traditional literacy. This phrase highlights the shift towards visual media over written texts in shaping modern political discourse. Wolff's portrayal emphasizes how Trump's reliance on television and visual messages influenced his approach to governance and public perception. The quote reflects a broader cultural phenomenon where many individuals consume information primarily through audiovisual means, often leading to simplified narratives that prioritize spectacle over substance. This characterisation of Trump underscores the changing landscape of media consumption and its impact on political figures and their communication strategies.

In "Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House," Michael Wolff explores Donald Trump's unique engagement with media, coining the phrase "postliterate-total television." This indicates a shift from traditional reading to a dominance of visual storytelling in politics, illustrating how modern leaders operate in a media-saturated environment.

Wolff’s assessment reveals that Trump's governance style and public image were profoundly influenced by his reliance on television, suggesting a preference for images and sound bites over detailed analysis. This phenomenon highlights a broader cultural trend where many people absorb information primarily through visual channels, often resulting in oversimplified narratives.