So Sad, Too Unfair
All that vulgar showiness, that gauche self-absorption, the awkward presentations, the vigour and restlessness, the political embarrassment in a restrained and elite society of a president who is larger than life and more energetic than a tsunami, is just too much to bear for French society.So Nicolas Sarkozy's approval rating has plunged into the basement, deep-sixed. And that's a pity, because he is quite the character. Strong-willed, highly intelligent, patriotic, concerned and capable.
The suave and discreet French establishment has proven anxiously averse to the crass and vulgar exhibitionism of their first-year president. Too bad on them. It works for the Russian president, the Russians love his crass exhibitionism, his rhetoric, his arrogant repulsion of the West, his siege mentality, defiance and skulduggery. Nicolas Sarkozy is a counter-image of Vladimir Putin, all the rough edges there, the nasty bits expunged.
They're clearly confused, those French. Their president has launched some very societally useful initiatives. He has represented France energetically and convincingly usefully on the world stage. They surely must appreciate his moves to enhance the French economy, his determination to make criminals cringe in fearful appreciation of his crackdowns.
They have, however, seen fit to draw themselves to their full height of disapproval at his rambunctious airing of his personal life.
It might be seen as refreshing in other circles, but obviously not in France. Where indiscretions on the part of the ruling elite should be kept well hidden from public scrutiny, no matter how illiberal, how socially unacceptable, how illicitly political they may be. Out of sight, no mind.
Mr. Sarkozy's exuberant display in exposing his personal love life has gained him censure. How so, in a country so given to courtly amour?
The man in charge has chosen to stand responsibly for his country within NATO, sending additional French troops to Afghanistan. The home audience is not thrilled with this move. They do not appreciate their hyper president. Come back, you humourless, morose, uber-political, play-safe presidents of the past.
The France of poor economic performance, strife in the banlieues, too-generous pensions, and high-taxes; of presidential infidelities discovered only post-mortem is sadly missed.
Labels: Political Realities, That's Life, Traditions, World News
posted by Pieface @ Tuesday, May 06, 2008
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