Mimis Androulakis gave a revealing interview, tuesday (3/12), on the ERT show, “Studio 4”, with the author-politician talking about the period when he wrote his books, even though he was blind, the posthumous debates . , but also Andreas Papandreou.
«When I started writing my trilogy I also lost my light. I am the blind man who sees. I am like Oedipus at colonus. I wrote all three books and I was basically blind. When you remember that experience it is very painful.
“I follow a midsummer night’s ritual. I go to bed early and get up at 4am, the darkest hour, and walk. I have given the trees on my estate, names of famous people and conversation. I hear the melodies and voices of the trees. I have the ability to have conversations with the living and posthumous conversations with the dead.I continue the discussion after deathMimis Androulakis continued.
«Everyone thought that Andreas Papandreou had chosen his successor. I have written a chapter that I call “endless jealousy”. It is, say, the former prime minister with the current prime minister. He is like the ex-husband of the immediate husband. Everyone assumed that Andreas would want a humble representative so that the power mistress would always miss the great lover, Andreas.
I always suspected that Andreas subconsciously knew that there could be another modest lover, who he was not really afraid of, and his name was Kostas simitis. He tells you “no matter what he does, Simitis will always be there”. Andreas thought about it. Maybe he said to his surroundings ”This is not PASOK”.
There is always a yard around the leader. Sometimes, the yard plays a mitigating role, but often malignant, seductive and subversive.No matter what andreas said, he knew Kostas Simitis could succeed him. Andreas was not afraid that the power, ie the mistress, the wife, would be seduced by Simitis“, said Mimis Androulakis.
What challenges did mimis Androulakis face while writing his trilogy as a blind author?
Interview with Mimis androulakis: Insights from a Blind Author and Political Observer
Editor: Welcome, Mimis Androulakis! Thank you for joining us today. Yoru recent interview on ERT’s “Studio 4” has sparked meaningful conversation regarding your experiences as a blind author and your reflections on Andreas Papandreou. Can you share what inspired you to write your trilogy during a challenging period of your life?
Mimis Androulakis: Thank you for having me. The inspiration came from an innate need to express and explore my thoughts and experiences, even as I faced the reality of blindness. I often describe myself as “the blind man who sees.” Writing during that time was cathartic, but it was also a painful reminder of what I had lost.
editor: That’s profound. You likened your journey to that of Oedipus at Colonus. How do you think this comparison influences your writing and perspective on life and politics?
Mimis Androulakis: Oedipus represents profound vision despite physical blindness, which resonates with my own experiences. This duality allows me to engage deeply with both the living and the deceased, fostering rich conversations that transcend time. It’s a ritual that embodies a unique perspective on existence, influencing how I perceive political dynamics, historical narratives, and personal stories.
Editor: in your trilogy, you delve into the relationships and rivalries in Greek politics, particularly concerning Andreas Papandreou. You noted a concept you call “endless jealousy.” Could you elaborate on this idea and its implications on political succession?
Mimis Androulakis: Yes, “endless jealousy” encapsulates the complex relationships between political leaders and their successors. I draw an analogy with personal relationships—Papandreou who,while in power,consciously strategized around his eventual successor,Kostas Simitis. This rivalry stemmed not only from political ambition but also from emotional complexity, akin to exes vying for affection. The political arena is filled with emotional undercurrents that shape decisions and legacies.
Editor: It’s fascinating how emotions can intertwine with politics. You mentioned that many assumed Papandreou would choose a humble successor. What does this reveal about perceptions of leadership within PASOK and beyond?
Mimis Androulakis: it reflects the psychological intricacies of leadership and legacy. Leaders often project their insecurities onto potential successors, fearing that a capable successor may usurp their position. Papandreou’s choice was likely influenced by the desire to maintain an aura of uniqueness while ensuring his continued influence through successors like Simitis, who aligned with his vision yet posed a complexity to his legacy.
Editor: So, your insights reveal that leadership extends beyond policy to the personal realm. For aspiring authors and political analysts reading this, what practical advice can you offer, given your experiences?
Mimis Androulakis: Embrace your unique perspective, irrespective of limitations or challenges. Authentic storytelling comes from honest emotional exploration and understanding the subtleties of human interactions—both in life and politics. Don’t shy away from tough subjects; rather, confront them head-on. Lastly, remember that conversations—both with the living and the deceased—can enrich your narratives and help unearth hidden truths.
Editor: Thank you, Mimis. Your insights into the intersections of personal experience, literature, and politics are invaluable. We appreciate you sharing your journey and reflections with us today.
Mimis Androulakis: Thank you for having me. It has been a pleasure sharing my thoughts and hopefully inspiring others to see beyond their circumstances.
This interview highlights the profound journey of Mimis Androulakis as a blind author and political observer, delving into themes of legacy, leadership, and personal growth. His reflections provide valuable insights for readers interested in the intersections of literature and politics.
