In the 1580s, the predecessor to the word filibuster (flibutor) meant “pirate.” It’s from the Dutch vrijbueter/vrijbuiter, “freebooter," literally one who plunders “free booty” (vrij “free” + buit “booty”).

In a filibuster, you “pirate” debate to overthrow the balance of legislative authority.

Being a person with deadly, incurable cancer who is nonetheless still alive for an indefinite timeframe gives me an interesting metaphor that helps me deal with things like large-scale corruption in government or commerce.

Bear with me for a second while I try to explain.