Monday 21 January 2008
Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin
Time magazine hasn't got the most reputable history when it comes to choosing their 'Person of the Year'; winners in the past have been tarred by the absurd inclusion of George W. Bush. They admit this is not a popularity contest, rather they focus mainly it seems on the individual's global impact. For example, JK Rowling came an acceptable third. Although this article is lengthy and laborious, it's written with precision and affectation, with interview extracts and impressions included. Upon reading this piece there's no denying the Russian faith directed at Putin, and he's orchestrated a cultural revolution - something almost invisible during Yeltsin's slurring rein. The readers of Time have voted 4:1 against their decision to name Putin man of the year, who even adorning him "Tsar of the New Russia". Ironically however, those writing into the editors have been majoritively in support of their choice, and, in my opinion, rightly so. Well done Time magazine.