On Sept. 27, 2016, the New York Times published a book review by Michiko Kakutani of a new biography called “Hitler: Ascent 1889-1939” written by Volker Ullrich. Below, I have quoted at length from that review:
“Hitler was often described as an egomaniac who “only loved himself”…His manic speeches and penchant for taking all-or-nothing risks raised questions about his capacity for self-control, even his sanity.
Hitler was known…for his bottomless mendacity that would later be magnified by a slick propaganda machine that used the latest technology.
A former finance minister wrote that Hitler “was so thoroughly untruthful that he could no longer recognize the difference between lies and truth.”
Hitler was an effective…actor, Mr. Ullrich reminds readers, adept at…feeding off the energy of his audiences.
Hitler adapted the content of his speeches to suit the tastes of his lower-middle-class, nationalist, conservative…listeners…he peppered his speeches with coarse phrases and put-downs of hecklers…he offered himself as a visionary leader who could restore law and order…promising to lead Germany to a new era of national greatness.”
Any resemblance between the above and persons living or dead is purely coincidental.
Dr. Hal Sobel
Great Neck
