Jordan Bardella, the president of the National Rally, recently published his autobiography “Ce que je cherche” at the age of 29. The book, published by Fayard, has garnered attention for the lack of depth and substance in its content. Bardella himself acknowledges that his detractors may find the book mediocre and uninteresting. The autobiography, which spans 324 pages, offers little new information for fans of the National Rally leader and fails to provide insight into Bardella’s political thinking. The book has been marketed as a Christmas gift item with the backing of conservative billionaire Vincent Bolloré’s publishing and media empire.
Despite claiming to be a reflection of Bardella’s life, the autobiography falls short of providing any introspection, revelations, or new anecdotes about the young politician. The first third of the book focuses on the European elections and legislative anticipations, shedding some light on Bardella’s ambitions to become prime minister. However, the book lacks depth in exploring Bardella’s Italian heritage and childhood in a suburb of Saint-Denis. The author does not critically analyze the integration policies that allowed his family to succeed in France, while advocating for a different stance as the head of the National Rally.
The book also touches on the challenges of everyday life in Bardella’s neighborhood, acknowledging the privileges and opportunities he had to escape his upbringing, such as attending private Catholic schools and having a supportive family environment. While the autobiography hints at Bardella’s personal experiences and background, it fails to delve into the complexities and contradictions of his family’s immigrant story and his political views. Despite being marketed as a personal reflection, “Ce que je cherche” lacks the depth and substance expected from an autobiography of a prominent political figure like Bardella.
The autobiography has been criticized for its lack of political insight or literary value, with Bardella himself acknowledging that the book may not satisfy those seeking a deeper understanding of his political beliefs. The publication of the book has raised questions about Bardella’s leadership and the messaging of the National Rally. With the backing of a powerful media network, the autobiography serves as a promotional tool for Bardella’s political ambitions, rather than a genuine reflection of his life and thinking. As the National Rally continues to gain traction in French politics, Bardella’s autobiography offers a glimpse into the party’s strategies and messaging under his leadership.
In conclusion, Jordan Bardella’s autobiography “Ce que je cherche” fails to provide new insights into the young politician’s life and political beliefs. While marketed as a personal reflection, the book lacks depth and substance, offering little beyond a superficial overview of Bardella’s background and experiences. As the National Rally continues to make waves in French politics, Bardella’s autobiography serves as a promotional tool for his political ambitions, rather than a meaningful contribution to political discourse. The lack of introspection and critical analysis in the autobiography raises questions about Bardella’s leadership and the messaging of the National Rally under his guidance.
