1/ "Literalist drivel" refers specifically to the willful act of ignoring the whole nexus of symbolism and subtext that informs communication. Hence your acres of argument that the Catholic bishops did not endorse Donald Trump and the bishops did not direct the clergy to steer the laity toward Trump.

You wrote:

<<There are a fair number of Jews, blacks, and others who do not believe that Mr. Bannon exploits anyone.>>

How many does this "fair number" actually comprise? Regardless, the evidence suggests overwhelmingly that Mr. Bannon indeed exploits bigotry for political ends. The fact is the guy who bragged  is now chief White House strategist and senior advisor to the president-elect.