The World is Talking. Global Politics

I'll have more to say about McClellan's book, or, rather what he's saying about his book, when I return home (although my headline is sort of a big clue to where my head is on this).

Until then, you might visit Rhetorica in April of 2006 for a rundown of events. Plus, Jay Rosen is, and has been, on the McClellan beat. From 2006: The Jerk at the Podium. And his historical perspective offered today.

I'm liking what The New York Times had to say about it in today's editorial:

There are several kinds of Washington memoirs: “I Reveal the Honest Truth,” a kiss-up-and-tell designed to settle scores (nod to honesty optional). “I Was There at the Start,” designed to make the author appear to be the linchpin of history. And, most tedious: “I Knew It Was a Terrible Mistake, but I Didn’t Mention It Until I Got a Book Contract.”

Scott McClellan’s memoir is the latest entry in the latter genre.

He was a weasel for hire--and a damned good one. He got the job done. President Bush had every right to have McClellan do the job he did. I don't think it was a good choice, but that's merely my opinion. Presidents answer to history, not college professors at state schools.

Are we to suppose McClellan is now telling us the whole truth? Or might he be playing weasel for another master (truth be told or not)?

Tags: journalism, rhetoric, politics