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The ex-president of France plans a book in the coming weeks named A Prisoner’s Diary, chronicling his experience endured in custody.

The announcement was made shortly following the ex-leader gained freedom as he appeals the court ruling related to illegal collaboration in a case to acquire political financing from the regime of Muammar Gaddafi.

Time in Custody: Solitary Musings

“Behind bars there is nothing to see, and activities are scarce,” he reflects in an extract, suggesting the book centers around his musings during isolation rather than a broader observation on the packed and troubled correctional facilities in the country.

“I forget silence, which is missing in that facility, where there is constant sound,” he continues. “The din is alas constant. However, akin to empty spaces, inner life grows stronger behind bars.”

Court Appearance: Recounting the Hardship

During his plea for freedom, Sarkozy was present via screen from a room in prison, characterizing his incarceration as gruelling. He had told the court: “I wish to commend the correctional officers, who are exceptionally humane, easing this nightmare tolerable – as it truly is one.”

“It never crossed my mind that at 70 years of age, I would end up incarcerated. It’s an ordeal I must endure. I confess it’s hard, deeply straining. It leaves a mark all who experience it due to its intensity.”

Historical Context

Sarkozy, who served as France’s president for a five-year term, set a precedent as former head in the European Union and the first leader since WWII from France to experience jail.

Before entering jail he declared he intended to spend the period to write a book.

Books in Prison

It remains unclear did he manage to review and analyze the three books he brought with him: a biography of Jesus in two parts plus the novel by Dumas the classic tale, in which an innocent man is imprisoned but escapes to take revenge.

Life in Confinement

He remained in solitary confinement for his own security in a cell roughly 100 square feet including private facilities at La Santé prison located in the capital. Security personnel stayed in a neighbouring cell.

It was stated his diet consisted only yoghurts while inside worried that any food could have been tampered with. He had facilities for self-catering but refused this, based on unnamed sources. Unclear remains if he will detail his dietary choices.

Defense Viewpoint

His attorney, Christophe Ingrain every day while he was in prison, told the release hearing his safety would improve released rather than in custody. “He has faced menacing messages, has heard screaming at night and emergency responses in a neighbouring cell as a detainee harmed themselves.”

Legal Proceedings

Sarkozy went to prison on 21 October after a Paris court imposed a half-decade term for criminal conspiracy related to a plan to secure campaign funds for his 2007 presidential race.

He maintains his innocence challenging the decision, with a new trial is scheduled for the coming spring.