Roads Not Taken

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

"Roads Not Taken" by Alexander Etkind is a compelling biography of William Christian Bullitt, a journalist, diplomat, and writer who was influential in shaping early 20th-century politics. Through a series of negotiations with key historical figures such as Lenin, Stalin, Churchill, and de Gaulle, Bullitt left a unique mark on international relations, particularly regarding the European Union and the Cold War. Etkind's book portrays Bullitt not only as a political actor but also as an original thinker whose ideas, though not heeded, offer intriguing alternatives to the historical trajectory we are familiar with.

Main Themes and Topics

The book delves into a variety of themes, prominently exploring alternatives that might have altered the course of 20th-century history. It presents Bullitt's vision as a counter-narrative to the decisions that led to World War I and II. A significant theme is the exploration of "roads not taken," highlighting how Bullitt's proposals—such as the disassembling of the Russian Empire into independent states—could have reshaped the political landscape. His foresight into the significance of the European Union and his dissent against conventional diplomatic strategies feature prominently in Etkind's narrative.

Writing Style and Tone

Alexander Etkind's writing is both scholarly and accessible, balancing well-researched historical detail with engaging narrative storytelling. The tone of the book is reflective and analytical, encouraging readers to contemplate the impact of Bullitt's unorthodox ideas and actions. Etkind provides a nuanced portrayal of Bullitt, capturing the complexity of his character and the breadth of his accomplishments and failures.

Criticism

Some readers might find that the book places a heavy emphasis on detailing the diplomatic intricacies of Bullitt's career, which can occasionally detract from a deeper exploration of his personal life and relationships. Others may argue that while the book highlights Bullitt's visionary ideas, it could benefit from a more critical examination of why these ideas were not adopted at the time.