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.
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This article appeared in the Culture section of the print edition under the headline ““Unleashed”—and mildly unhinged ”
Culture October 12th 2024
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From the October 12th 2024 edition
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