Olympic Games 2024 – Universalism

An Opening Ceremony that sparked so many reactions both praise and criticism deserves a second post. Especially to explore one of its deeper dimensions: a manifesto for living together, and its universalist vision, a core value of the Art de Vivre à la Française.

France is often associated with universalism because and through the lens of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, or the principle of inclusion. But what this Opening Ceremony also showcased, and what many reactions confirmed, it is that universalism is not just a moment in France’s history, nor a purely abstract ideal. It is a living, breathing part of French identity, rooted in our deepest values.

The Ceremony illustrated this through the concept of “Synchronicity”, and highlighted:

• A will to welcome the world, whoever it may be or come from, and give it a rightful place. Like the Refugee Team, still present this year. All different, yet all united by a shared pain that can be transformed into strength.
• A desire to remind both the French and the rest of the world, of the profound connections between the great figures of the French culture and others: Joan of Arc/Amazon warrior/Sequana goddess of the Seine… or The Masked Man/Phantom of the Opera/The Musketeers/ Arsène Lupin/Assassin’s Creed (yes, Ubisoft is French!) a narrative of continuity and universal resonance.
• An ambition to bring people together around shared values, across ages and origins. Like countertenor Jakub Józef Orliński, blending Les Indes Galantes with breakdance, or the diverse group of athletes carrying the Olympic flame, some French, some simply in love with France and its values, all united by their passion for sport.
• A deep belief in equality and dignity, as shown by Tony Estanguet delivering his speech not from the official tribune, but standing among the athletes.
• A pride in celebrating all forms of French excellence, from artisans to dancers, athletes to remarkable women (Les Femmes en Or in front of the National Assembly), from Ravel and Debussy to Johnny Hallyday and Michel Polnareff (yes, Lettre à France gave us all chills).
• A vision of culture, and especially literature, as alive and meaningful today, with the National Library brought to life with titles like Bel Ami, Passion Simple, Dangerous Liaisons, The Devil in the Flesh… that speak to lovers of literature around the world.

Yesterday, we highlighted a first key value of the Art de Vivre à la Française reflected in the Opening Ceremony: a love for life. You can find that post in our feed.

And now, as always, the debate is open! (Because debate, too, is a hallmark of the Art de Vivre à la Française.)