JEAN AMAD
As a student of Blagnac journalism school, I wanted to meet and learn a bit more about the « master », « coordonator », the so-called Jean Amad. I had to ask him to answer my questions during a pause. I wanted him to answer me in English, but after having hearing him speaking, I knew it would be a catastrophy and a bareer to his credibility. I met him at his office.
Mister Amad, during your lessons, you often make references about kebabs...Are they your lebanese origins which speaks or simply your stomach? And can you tell me about those origins?
Both of them. But don't worry, next time I'll speak about Mac Donald's. But you know, I was born in Beyrouth in 1971, in the French hospital. I lived only for 6 monthes there. My mother is French and my father was lebano-egyptian.
Tell me about your two favourites writers and why?
First of all, Blaise Cendrars with Moravagine. That is a true novel, a real one! I love the way he writes and of course the content. This man was really visionary. Remember he wrote this book in the 30's.
The other one is James Ellroy with American Tabloid and American Death Trip. I'm looking forward the next one American Madness. I'm a fond of his way of building the scenarios. He includes fiction in a historical reality. This is the future of the book.
Your favourite kind of music?
Punk Rock! Why? I was born into it!
Remember when you were young, at school, which subject did you hate?
Mathematics for sure! Disgusting!
Now, tell me which historical character would you be?
(Long hesitation) I may say Nicolas Machiavel. Because his ideas were modern, and he was totally out of religion inspiration. I like the fact that he was an historian. Machiavel was a precursor so yes, I admire him a lot.
Mister Amad, think about an historical period you would like to live in?
I ain't got any nostalgy. In the 50's, I should have done the Algerian war, in the 30's...war too. No, you know, nowadays we're all living in a protecting world. We cannot complain. So I'm okay with our times.
BENOIT ANGELY