Cécile Alduy, a professor at Stanford University, reflects on the aftermath of the terrorist attack in Nice, France, on Bastille Day, which resulted in at least 84 deaths. Alduy describes a shift from shock and grief to anger within French society, which was already strained by labor law protests, police brutality, natural disasters, and social unrest. The attack on Nice is seen as a deliberate assault on French values and democracy, symbolized by the targeting of Bastille Day. The city's cosmopolitan nature and local issues with jihadist recruitment and far-right politics make it a significant target. Alduy warns of the potential rise in National Front support and the risk of interethnic clashes as predicted by Patrick Calvar, head of counterterrorism intelligence. The article conveys a sense of a society on the brink, grappling with fear, hatred, and the possibility of further violence.

The article discusses the outcome of the Swedish parliamentary elections held on 11 September, where the far-right Sweden Democrats emerged as one of the biggest winners with 20.6% of the vote. The centre-right bloc, including the Sweden Democrats, won a majority with 176 seats, while the centre-left bloc secured 173 seats. The election was marked by a shift in political discourse towards immigration, integration, and crime. The Sweden Democrats, once isolated, are now poised to gain political leverage as a support party in a potential centre-right minority government. The article also touches on the energy policy debate and the cultural policy differences that may arise during government negotiations. It highlights the end of Swedish exceptionalism as the country aligns with the European mainstream, where radical-right narratives have been normalized.

Christophe Leribault, the president of the Musée d’Orsay and de l’Orangerie, was interviewed by 'l’Obs' following his nomination to lead the Château de Versailles. The discussion took place ahead of the opening of a major exhibition celebrating 150 years of Impressionism.

The article discusses the resurgence in popularity of the 1973 French novel 'The Camp of the Saints' by Jean Raspail, particularly among far-right circles in France and the United States. The book, which presents a dystopian scenario of France being overrun by immigrants, was initially unpopular but has gained traction alongside the rise of far-right politics. It has been cited by figures such as Marine Le Pen and Steve Bannon as a reflection of their views on immigration. The article traces the novel's trajectory and its influence on contemporary political discourse, noting its controversial and racist content. It also covers the political climate in France, the rise of the National Front, and the potential impact of the novel's ideas on the French presidential election.

The article discusses the resurgence in popularity of the 1973 novel 'The Camp of the Saints' by Jean Raspail, particularly among far-right circles in France and the United States. The book, which presents a dystopian scenario of mass immigration leading to the downfall of Western civilization, was initially unpopular but has gained traction in recent years, coinciding with the rise of far-right politics. The novel has been cited by French far-right presidential candidate Marine Le Pen and former U.S. President Donald Trump's adviser Steve Bannon as a reflection of their views on immigration. The article traces the novel's journey from obscurity to becoming a symbol for anti-immigrant sentiment and discusses its impact on contemporary political discourse, including its influence on Le Pen's presidential campaign and policy proposals.

The article discusses the situation in Paris, France, where a three-week trash collectors' strike has led to over 10,000 tons of garbage accumulating on the streets. This strike is part of a larger protest against President Emmanuel Macron's proposed retirement reform, which has sparked massive opposition and weekly demonstrations since January. The reform, which aims to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64, was forced through without a formal parliamentary vote, causing further outrage and leading to discussions about the strenuous working conditions of lower-wage workers like trash collectors. The article also touches on the broader implications of the protests, including the potential political consequences for Macron and the rise of populist parties like Marine Le Pen's National Rally. It concludes by noting that while trash collection has resumed, the underlying social and political discontent remains unresolved.

Emmanuel Macron, after five years in power and promising a 'new world', paradoxically aims to embody 'novelty' as an incumbent by reinventing politics and renewing renewal itself. However, the mystery of how remains, as his key measures are not innovative. Instead of a new prime minister, government, or unprecedented reforms, his party La République En Marche was simply rebranded as 'Renaissance' on May 5, signifying renewal in a circular fashion.

The article discusses the political journey of Marine Le Pen and the National Front in France. Despite her rise in French politics and leading the party to significant electoral gains, Le Pen faced a major setback in the 2017 presidential election, losing to Emmanuel Macron. The article examines the National Front's decline in popularity, internal conflicts, and financial issues, but also highlights the party's resilience and ideological influence on French society, particularly on issues of immigration and national identity. The author suggests that while the National Front may be experiencing difficulties, it remains a significant force in French politics, with a solid base and the potential for a comeback.

The article discusses French President Emmanuel Macron's rise to power and his early weeks in office. Macron, who founded the movement En Marche and won the presidency, is characterized as a master of symbolism and surprise, embodying youth, renewal, and authority. The article explores Macron's political strategies, his 'neo-Gaullist' image, and his policies, which include a mix of liberal cultural measures and neo-liberal economic policies. The author, Cécile Alduy, a professor at Stanford University, also comments on the decline of traditional political parties in France, such as the National Front and the Socialist Party, and the rise of Macron's En Marche. Additionally, Macron's interactions with U.S. President Donald Trump are highlighted as having bolstered his image in France. The article concludes with a correction stating that Macron was not a member of the Socialist Party when he founded En Marche.

Cécile Alduy, a professor of French literature at Stanford University and researcher associated with Cevipof at Sciences-Po Paris, discusses the importance of word choice, impactful phrases, and persuasive communication for presidential candidates in France. The candidates' fate relies on their verbal prowess, as speaking effectively is crucial for their existence and potential victory in the political arena.