Charles de Gaulle: 'I have against me the bourgeois, the military and the diplomats, and for me, only the people who take the Metro.'

I have against me the bourgeois, the military and the diplomats, and for me, only the people who take the Metro.

The quote by Charles de Gaulle, "I have against me the bourgeois, the military and the diplomats, and for me, only the people who take the Metro," carries a powerful message that reflects both the challenges he faced and the support he found among the ordinary citizens. In a straightforward interpretation, de Gaulle highlights the opposition he encountered from the upper classes and establishments, such as the bourgeois, military, and diplomats. On the other hand, he acknowledges the backing and connection he had with everyday people who depended on the Metro for their daily commute. However, it is through the exploration of an unexpected philosophical concept that we can discover a deeper layer of complexity within this quote.The concept of existentialism can shed new light on de Gaulle's words. Existentialism emphasizes the idea that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in life. By comparing and contrasting this concept with de Gaulle's quote, we can uncover intriguing insights. De Gaulle's reference to the bourgeois, military, and diplomats as opposing forces can be seen as representative of the societal structures and influences that exist externally to an individual. In contrast, his mention of the people who take the Metro can symbolize the collective power and inherent freedom that lies within each individual.From an existentialist perspective, de Gaulle's quote suggests a struggle between external forces and the internal yearning for authenticity and self-determination. The bourgeois, military, and diplomats can be seen as embodiments of societal expectations, hierarchical systems, and conventional norms that seek to exert control and limit individual freedom. In contrast, the people who take the Metro represent a diverse cross-section of society, unaffected by these external influences. They embody individualism, as they navigate their own paths through the bustling city, free to choose their destinations, and define their own journeys.De Gaulle's recognition of being supported only by those who take the Metro highlights the existential truth that individuals who have embraced their freedom and autonomy are often the ones most likely to resist oppressive systems and support alternative paths. These "Metro-goers" may possess a deeper sense of authenticity and a connection to their personal truths, precisely because they have chosen their own path, untethered by societal expectations.In applying existentialist thought to de Gaulle's quote, a fascinating parallel emerges. Just as the Metro offers a labyrinth of interconnected stations and diverging paths, life itself presents a multitude of choices and possibilities. The bourgeois, military, and diplomats are representative of the confines and limitations enforced by external forces, akin to predefined routes on a map. In contrast, the people who take the Metro symbolize individuals who exercise their freedom to select their own destinations, embracing the uncertainty and existential responsibility that accompany such liberation.Ultimately, Charles de Gaulle's quote resonates not only as a statement of the challenges he faced but also as a broader commentary on the tension between societal expectations and individual autonomy. By unraveling its meaning through the lens of existentialism, we gain a newfound appreciation for the significance of personal freedom, authenticity, and the choices we make in navigating our own paths. De Gaulle's words serve as a reminder to seek liberation from societal pressures and external influences, choosing to embrace the freedom found within the Metro-like complexity of life.