Boris Johnson’s memoir “Unleashed” has been described as twisted, sour, and full of more lies. In this 772-page account, the former Prime Minister presents a self-aggrandizing version of events, portraying himself as a man of destiny who is above reproach. Johnson’s narrative weaves a tale of tragic downfall akin to Shakespearean or classical proportions, as he compares himself to historical figures like Julius Caesar, Pericles, and Cincinnatus.
Throughout the memoir, Johnson deflects blame, refuses to acknowledge the damage caused by Brexit or his handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, and skirts around his own legal troubles and repeated lies to parliament. His text is deemed shameless, predictable, and self-exculpatory, aiming to protect his tarnished reputation rather than facing up to his failures.
Despite claiming to acknowledge his mistakes, Johnson’s admissions only scratch the surface of self-discovery. He attributes his downfall to others’ inability to understand his supposed greatness, painting himself as a victim of betrayal and subterfuge. The memoir is criticised for being heavy on anecdotes, gossip, and knockabout humour, but light on substance and self-reflection.
At 772 pages long, “Unleashed” offers little insight beyond Johnson’s bombastic and idiosyncratic style of storytelling. While the book may entertain with its quirky descriptions and witty remarks, it ultimately serves to whitewash Johnson’s legacy, leaving the Conservative Party to grapple with the repercussions of his leadership for years to come.