Boris Johnson, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has taken his memoir, Unleashed, across the Channel to promote its French edition, Indomptable. The title itself has sparked lively discussions, with Johnson humorously pointing out that Indomptable might not fully capture the spirit of the original. As he explained during his French media tour, a more direct translation like Déchaîné would have been closer to the mark.
A Tour De Force – Or Lost in Translation?
Appearing on Radio France, Johnson entertained audiences with his trademark wit, poking fun at his own French skills, which he called “barbaric.” Despite this self-deprecation, he proved quite capable of engaging with the French media, even charming listeners by naming Georges Simenon—creator of the Maigret series—as his favorite French-language author.
The memoir itself is a candid exploration of Johnson’s political journey, offering insights into pivotal moments like his tenure as Mayor of London, the Brexit referendum, and the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Written with Johnson’s characteristic humor and flair, Unleashed dives into the personal and political trials that shaped his time in office.
The French Debate Over Indomptable
The title Indomptable translates loosely to “untamable” or “indomitable,” but Johnson and others have noted that it lacks the punchy, rebellious energy of Unleashed. This seemingly small change underscores the larger challenge of translating a political memoir for a foreign audience.
Translators often wrestle with conveying not just the literal meaning of a title but the cultural and emotional nuances behind it. For Johnson, who is known for his colorful vocabulary and sharp humor, this task is even more daunting.
The Human Side of Boris Johnson
One of the most interesting elements of Johnson’s French media blitz has been his relatability. By openly admitting his linguistic struggles and sharing his admiration for Simenon’s brisk storytelling, he offered a glimpse of himself beyond the political headlines.
This personal touch has been well-received in France, where audiences have shown interest in the man behind the public persona. Johnson’s reflections on his political career and the humor he brings to the discussion have made his memoir intriguing to readers on both sides of the Channel.
Why Unleashed Matters
More than just a political memoir, Unleashed is an attempt to cement Johnson’s legacy while offering his perspective on some of the most turbulent years in recent UK history. For French audiences, it provides a fascinating lens into the mind of one of Britain’s most controversial leaders.
The memoir’s translation has sparked a broader conversation about the delicate art of bringing political and cultural narratives to life in a different language. Johnson’s playful criticism of the French title, along with his candid anecdotes, only adds to the book’s allure.
Your Questions Answered
1. Why is the French title Indomptable controversial?
Indomptable doesn’t fully reflect the energy and tone of Unleashed. Johnson himself suggested Déchaîné (meaning “unleashed” or “wild”) as a more fitting alternative.
2. What does Unleashed cover?
The book spans Johnson’s political career, from his time as Mayor of London to his leadership during Brexit and the COVID-19 crisis. It’s filled with humor, personal insights, and reflections on his time in power.
3. How has the French audience reacted?
French audiences have shown curiosity about the memoir, with Johnson’s engaging media appearances adding to the intrigue. His humor and candid remarks about his language skills have resonated.
4. Who is Georges Simenon, and why did Johnson mention him?
Simenon, a Belgian writer, is best known for his detective novels featuring Jules Maigret. Johnson praised Simenon’s prolific writing style, calling him his favorite French-language author.
5. What’s the biggest challenge in translating political memoirs?
Maintaining the author’s tone and intent across languages is complex, especially for someone with a distinctive voice like Johnson. Titles, idioms, and humor often lose impact when translated literally.
Boris Johnson’s Unleashed offers more than a look into UK politics; it’s a deep dive into the man himself. Whether you pick up the English version or the French Indomptable, one thing is clear—this memoir, like its author, is bound to make waves.
Sources The Times
