By Almudena Martínez-Bordiú
Madrid, Spain, Jan 14, 2025 / 07:00 am
“Hope,” the autobiography of Pope Francis, was released in Italian bookstores on Tuesday and will be available in over 100 countries from January 16.
This book is a unique insight into the life of Pope Francis, from his childhood in Argentina to his leadership role in the Catholic Church. It is the first time a pope has shared personal stories in such a manner.
Written in collaboration with journalist Carlo Musso, the 320-page English edition published by Random House captures six years of the pope’s work and experiences, providing readers with a deeper understanding of his journey.
Touching on important global issues such as war, peace, immigration, the environment, social policies, and the future of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis presents his views under the overarching theme of hope, which is also a central focus of the 2025 Jubilee.
In a recent interview, Pope Francis humorously mentioned that the book was initially planned for posthumous publication but was brought forward due to his good health. This decision ensures that his message remains relevant and impactful.
Revealing a poignant moment from his past, the pope recalls the sinking of the Princesa Mafalda, a tragic event that his family narrowly escaped. His grandparents and father had tickets for the ill-fated ship but missed the voyage due to a delay in selling their possessions.
Embarking on a nostalgic journey to his past, the pontiff delves into his autobiography and recounts moments that have shaped his life. “That’s why I am here now; you can’t imagine how many times I have thanked Divine Providence for it,” he shares, reflecting on the gratitude he feels for his current path.
From reminiscing about his childhood on “531 Membrillar Street” in the Flores neighborhood of Buenos Aires to the friendships he made, including an unexpected bond with a former prostitute named “La Parota” who turned her life around to care for the elderly, the pope’s autobiography is filled with heartfelt anecdotes.
‘Healthy irony’ as a medicine to counter narcissism
Delving deeper into his reflections, the Holy Father emphasizes the importance of humor, particularly “healthy irony,” as a remedy to combat sadness and narcissism. “Irony is medicine, not only to elevate and enlighten others but also for oneself,” he muses, highlighting the power of self-irony in overcoming the allure of narcissism.
Quoting the pope from his book, “Narcissists continually look in the mirror, they get all primped up, they observe themselves over and over again, but the best advice in front of a mirror is always to laugh at oneself. It will do us good,” the narrative unfolds with wisdom and wit.
Interspersed with lighthearted moments, the autobiography also features jokes shared by the pope himself. In a preview provided by the Italian newspaper Avvenire, readers are treated to a humorous anecdote involving Pope Francis and a limousine in America.
As the story goes, Pope Francis, intrigued by the grandeur of a limousine waiting for him at the New York airport, decides to take the wheel for a spin. The comical escapade unfolds with the pope speeding down the streets, only to be stopped by a police car for his fast driving. The playful banter between the pope and the young policeman adds a touch of levity to the narrative, showcasing the pope’s endearing charm.
