The launch of former German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s memoir, “Freedom,” has become a nostalgic affair for many Germans, evoking memories of a time when “everything was more or less OK” under her steady leadership. The autobiography’s release comes amidst turbulent times in German politics, with the recent collapse of the post-Merkel government and looming elections that could see Merkel’s former rival, Friedrich Merz, rise to power.
A Comforting Voice in Uncertain Times
As Merkel’s soothing voice fills the Deutsches Theater in Berlin during a reading from her audiobook, the audience seems transported to a more stable era. The familiar, calming cadence of her words stands in stark contrast to the current political upheavals gripping the nation.
To hear her speak about her life in politics is to be flung back into an era when everything was more or less OK.
– A comment on the livestream of Merkel’s book presentation
Queuing for a Piece of History
Devoted fans like Finn Kulbatzki, a 23-year-old business studies undergraduate, waited patiently for hours outside Berlin’s Dussmann bookshop to have their copies of “Freedom” signed by Merkel herself. The former chancellor, dressed in one of her signature blazers, diligently worked to sign as many books as possible during the 90-minute session.
The excitement was palpable, with fans gushing over the opportunity to be in Merkel’s presence. “We grew up with Merkel … she’s as familiar to us as Ronaldo or Britney Spears – more so,” exclaimed a group of young women who had slipped out of work to attend the signing.
A “Hygge Moment” for Political Berlin
The warmth and comfort exuded by Merkel’s book events have been described as a “hygge moment” by Henrike Roßbach, parliamentary correspondent for the Süddeutsche Zeitung. The Danish concept of “hygge” encapsulates a feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being – a welcome respite from the current political turmoil.
To those now caught up in the political dramas currently gripping Berlin, her words seemed to conjure up a fanciful, even fairytale, description of what it’s like to be in power.
– Observation from the Deutsches Theater event
Criticism Amidst the Nostalgia
Despite the outpouring of affection, Merkel has faced criticism for presenting an overly favorable view of her 16-year tenure in “Freedom.” Some accuse her of glossing over missteps and controversies, such as Germany’s dependence on Russian gas, her relationship with Vladimir Putin, and the 2015 decision to open Germany’s borders to Syrian refugees.
Mistakes? Errors? Merkel would have us believe that there was no such thing in her 16 years as chancellor … Everything was done right is the message of the book, because (according to her) it’s the circumstances under which politics are made that are crucial.
– Editorial in the Passauer Neue Presse
Merkel, however, remains steadfast in her belief that she acted in the best interests of Germany and Europe throughout her tenure. As she stated during the Deutsches Theater event, “this book should really not give the impression that I am of the opinion that when I left office, I left behind me the ideal Germany.”
A Bittersweet Longing for Stability
The fervor surrounding Merkel’s memoir launch reflects a deeper yearning among Germans for the stability and assuredness that characterized her leadership. As the country navigates a tumultuous political landscape, many find solace in reminiscing about the Merkel era, even as they grapple with its complex legacy.
She’s the best thing to ever have come out of Germany. A 16-year success story. I miss her so much.
– Theo, an attendee tuned into the Deutsches Theater livestream
As Germans eagerly consume “Freedom” and flock to Merkel’s book events, they find themselves transported, if only briefly, to a time that felt safer and more predictable. While the memoir may not put to rest the debates surrounding her legacy, it offers a comforting voice in a world that feels increasingly uncertain.
