Insights

Hillary Clinton's memoir, 'Something Lost, Something Gained: Reflections on Life, Love and Liberty,' reveals her ongoing struggle with the emotional aftermath of her 2016 presidential defeat. Despite claiming her life is richer and her spirit stronger, the book illustrates her experience of lingering PTSD, as she grapples with feelings of denial, anger, and depression. Clinton reflects on her campaign, expressing a sense of entitlement and contemplating what could have been had she won the election. The memoir also touches on her public persona, where she navigates fame and the expectations that come with it. Clinton's interactions with notable figures, such as Steven Spielberg and Anna Wintour, highlight her continued prominence in the public eye. However, she also expresses guilt regarding the impact her candidacy had on her husband, Bill Clinton, suggesting a complex emotional landscape. Clinton's reflections extend to her views on the current political climate, particularly in relation to Donald Trump's presidency. She shares a grim vision of America under his leadership, implying that she could have prevented such a scenario had she been elected. This perspective underscores her belief in her own capabilities and the weight of her loss. Ultimately, the memoir serves as a candid exploration of her personal and political identity post-2016, revealing a woman caught between her past ambitions and the reality of her current circumstances, as she seeks to contribute to the future while grappling with her past.