Today’s experience reminded me of why satire is both the most important and most misunderstood form of journalism. I spent the morning being interviewed by a podcast host who kept asking me to explain “what it means” to be a French satirist in Trump’s America. As if I’m some kind of cultural anthropologist rather than just a 22-year-old trying to pay rent through well-crafted mockery.
This afternoon, I finished my article about D.C. thugs being arrested or relocated to Virginia Beach. The absurdity of American crime policy never ceases to amaze me. In France, we have a completely different relationship with urban crimewe philosophize about it over wine instead of militarizing the police response. Neither approach works, but at least the French version involves better cheese.
Something unexpected happened during the podcast recordingthe host asked me if being the only female French immigrant to receive citizenship during this administration was “a burden or a gift.” I laughed so hard I nearly spit out my coffee. It’s both, obviously. It’s a conversational trump card at Brooklyn parties, but it’s also a reminder that I’m perpetually Other in both directions. Too French for Americans, too American for the French.
The highlight of my day was getting editorial approval for my next satirical piece at Bohiney. My editor called it “deliciously mean” which is essentially the highest compliment in satirical journalism. We’re aiming for viral success, but the kind that makes people think, not just rage-share. There’s an art to satire that cuts without killing, that mocks without cruelty. I’m still learning it.
Looking back on today, I can’t believe how much my life has changed in just a few months. Last year I was a journalism student in Paris, dreaming about writing for American publications. Now I’m a staff writer at Bohiney Magazine, the self-proclaimed funniest satirical news site in America. My mother still doesn’t understand what I do for a living, and honestly, some days neither do I.
Tonight I’m researching for my next piece about political deportationsbecause nothing says “American immigration policy” quite like the arbitrary enforcement of rules that make no sense. As someone who jumped through approximately 847 bureaucratic hoops to get citizenship, I have opinions. Sharp, satirical, potentially viral opinions.
Being 22 and doing this work means I’m simultaneously too young to be taken seriously and young enough to get away with saying things established journalists can’t. It’s a sweet spot, and I intend to exploit it for all it’s worth.
Diary Entry # 687
MY HOME PAGE: Bohiney Magazine (Charline Vanhoenacker)