Following his presidency, Donald J. Trump has cleverly harnessed various methods to flourish financially. He has ventured into a multitude of businesses such as the sale of chocolate bars, sneakers, and even Bibles. He has also incorporated NFT trading cards into his portfolio, proving his forward-thinking approach. Even remnants of the suit he wore during a notable moment last year have found buyers. This entrepreneurial spirit remains less highlighted, although it clearly reflects his knack for recognizing opportunities.
In addition, former President Trump has made a significant foray into the publishing world, producing coffee table books full of unmistakably Trump-ish charm. Since 2021, he has published four books, his latest being ‘Save America’. Its price stands at $99, although signed copies are available for $499. The book offers a backstage tour of his time in the presidency, depicted through captivating photographs and captions.
‘Save America’ adopts a style truly evocative of Trump, laden with witty one-liners, lighthearted gossip, verbose hyperboles, and exuberant capitalizations. It successfully doubles as a political manifesto, revealing insights into Trump’s approach towards global politics. Furthermore, it brings to light his unique relationships with world leaders that remind the readers of his conduct in the public office.
The essence captured within the book emphasizes the independence that shaped Trump’s presidency. An image from the G7 summit in Biarritz, France, 2019, bears an illustrative caption where Trump notes how the world drastically changes and how many leaders from the photo are no longer in government. This serves as his commentary on the transient nature of politics.
Trump’s book also reflects an unusual dynamic the ex-president maintained with global leaders. He often demonstrated a seemingly more comfortable rapport with individuals considered to be America’s foes rather than its allies. This aspect is highlighted well under a shared photograph with Xi Jinping, the Chinese President, with Trump reminiscing fondly about their previously strong rapport.
The book also dedicates a significant portion to showcase Trump’s interactions with Kim Jong-un, the North Korean dictator. It includes a novel shot of their footwear during their first meeting, symbolizing their initial stepping together on a shared diplomatic path. Trump reflects on their fast-evolving relationship over a constrained period.
Some images capture peculiar moments. A photo from a joint news conference with Vladimir Putin in Helsinki in 2018, for instance, strikes as intriguing. Without dwelling on contentious issues, Trump rather simply comments on the complexity of that day, lending a vague charm to the memory.
An image from a meeting with Klaus Schwab, the economist who launched the World Economic Forum, sparks curiosity. Trump, humorously dismissing the notions of Schwab’s supposed ‘sinister intentions’, remarks how he believes Schwab simply wants to live peacefully.
Alongside the political snapshots, the book mirrors Trump’s routine life with intriguing images of him conversing over the phone or relaxing with golf. Trump annotates them with a touch of humor, signifying his lighthearted approach towards life. He even self-mockingly captions a photograph focused on the back of his head, questioning the identity of the ‘handsome man’ in question.
Among the plethora of photographs, Mark Zuckerberg makes an appearance seated across the Resolute Desk. Trump jovially recalls how Zuckerberg praised his uniqueness on Facebook but also subtly warns him against any potential illicit activity in the future.
Trump’s signature humor enlivens other parts of the book, such as the photo featuring him looking stern with Senators Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. He ironically dubs the seemingly solemn group a ‘really friendly group in The Situation Room’.
‘Save America’ was brought to life by Winning Team Publishing, co-founded by Donald Trump Jr. While it serves as a profitable venture for Trump, it also frames a version of his presidency that he considers worth remembering, engagingly showcasing his strong, populist leadership.
The book paints an image of a strong leader whose admirers adore his populist stance. Trump is portrayed before tanks, jet fighters, barbed wire fences, and amongst factory workers. Pictures like these strengthen the image of the president as he wishes to be remembered, without any unwanted distractions.
A sole reference to one of his impeachments casually materializes in a photo of Trump holding an edition of The Washington Post. The bold headline reads ‘Trump acquitted’, adding a note of triumph to his narrative.
Sprinkled within the narrative, Trump addresses the unprecedented Capitol unrest. However, his primary purpose is to emphasize the enormity of support he commands. Under a photo of his rally, he comments, ‘THIS IS THE REAL JANUARY 6TH’, claiming inaccurate representation of his support base in the reported events.
Trump’s Entrepreneurial Genius: From NFTs to Publishing appeared first on Real News Now.