rust belt

sir knight, your new set of armor is quite original. whose handiwork is it, if I may ask?
thank you, m'lady. twas forged for me by yonder blacksmith.
it has a unique look about it. not shiny or oiled at all. in fact, it's rather scaly and flaking off.
yes, m'lady. it predicts the coming industrial revolution, and ultimate decline of same. putting western economies at a competitive disadvantage with the rising east.
you speak in riddles, knight. I will cheer for you anyway. but are you sure you can make it to your horse?
I could use a forklift, couldn't I?
a what?
I mean squire! now where has that miscreant gone off to?