Boris Johnson shows how not to write a political memoir
His new book is full of revelations, but none of the sort readers actually want
It was 2008, during the global financial crisis. Boris Johnson was mayor of London. The political situation was tense; scrutiny was intensifying. Or, as Mr Johnson puts it in his memoir, “POW POW POW!”—first some people criticised his team. Then “BIFF!” the press were mean. Then “SOCKO!” a civil servant left him. Then “DOOOF!” a deputy mayor did. Then “THUDDEROO...” You get the idea.
Explore more
This article appeared in the Culture section of the print edition under the headline ““Unleashed”—and mildly unhinged ”
Culture October 12th 2024
- How humans invented good and evil, and may reinvent both
- How complicated is brain surgery actually?
- Why you should read Mohamed Mbougar Sarr
- Boris Johnson shows how not to write a political memoir
- Americans are chuffed as chips at British English
- Is TV’s next sure-fire hit, “Disclaimer”, a must-watch or a dud?
Discover more
In the second world war, some diplomacy was done between the sheets
Pamela Churchill Harriman, daughter-in-law of the prime minister, ran an effective charm offensive
Why the world is so animated about anime
Japan’s cartoons have conquered its screens, and more
How a second nuclear disaster was avoided at Chernobyl in 2022
The Russian occupation underscored the risks posed by nuclear sites in wartime
Han Kang wins the Nobel prize in literature for 2024
The South Korean author offers another example of the country’s cultural clout
How complicated is brain surgery actually?
A doctor reveals the myths and realities of his profession
Why you should read Mohamed Mbougar Sarr
The Senegalese novelist is one of the boldest writers working today