Le Monde’s London correspondent pontificates about Chirac’s moral high-ground. But look at all the sensitivity about his country’s place in the world. And check out this admission:
Mr Chirac does not endorse Baghdad, and he finds Saddam’s regime as despicable as do Bush and Blair. But he fears the American hawks will ignite Muslim fundamentalism worldwide. The fear of domestic conflagration and terrorism are also ever-present: there are 6 million French Muslims to take into account.
No mention of the absurd idea that Saddam will disarm more effectively if pressured by Hans Blix rather than the American and British armed forces. Just the simple fact of yet more French appeasement and fear. But more to the point: I don’t think this mouthpiece for Paris realizes he probably added a few points to Blair’s approval ratings. This is becoming not just a war against Saddam but against his allies. Yes, his allies. The French.
MERCHANDIZING MERCHANT: Interesting piece in the New York Times yesterday on Natalie Merchant’s decision to use the web and her own reputation to promote music that would be hard to produce through the big record companies. It’s not exactly the right analogy, but it’s similar to what a few writers are beginning to do to reach readers unfettered by corporate pressure, editorial control or anything but their own freedom. I hope her example inspires others – and increases the musical diversity out there.
The Dish 