On the Brink: The Trouble with France

As Europe binds closer together, and the twin watersheds of monetary union and the Millenium loom, what does the future hold for the UK's nearest neighbour? For centuries, France has occupied a unique position in the collective British psyche - sometimes as enemy, sometimes as collaborator. Part of this interest is attributable to the problems the two countries share economically, culturally and politically. Yet, the author of this study argues, despite the common difficulties, France is a country in crisis to a much greater extent than is realized. In this survey of the state of modern France, the author explores the major themes of French identity, exploring how each has been undermined - from agriculture to the motoring industry, smoking to fashion. With an analysis of recent French political history, Fenby argues that France is a country without direction; a once great power now unsure of itself and its place in the world.