‘The Naked Diplomat’ tries to be many things: a quote compendium, a love letter to Lebanon, a PG-13 rated anthology of diplomatic mishaps, a guide to pragmatic use of social media, but perhaps most of all it’s a call to action for us all to be diplomats.
The book is at times marvellous: great quotes, wonderful descriptions of Lebanon and its complexity, hilarious and shocking stories from inside the political machine, and a great demonstration of Twitter used effectively. But mostly, it strays into vague statements and generalities. Fletcher’s book could do with being shorter and more focused, it’s interesting as a memorandum, but don’t come into it expecting useful, condensed wisdom.
On a separate note: I started reading Fletcher’s book because he has undoubtedly had a titan-like effect on British government, being the Private Secretary to three Prime Ministers, in constant contact with them. As the paraphrased adage goes, the most important person in the King’s court is not any of his ministers, but the tea boy, for he has the King’s ear. His impact on - and thank goodness, utter good-will and care for - British lives is evident.