In the Eye of the Storm: A Memoir

The secretary-general of the United Nations from 1972 to 1982 here offers a thoughtful account of his personal role in world affairs in a period when the U.N.'s influence and image diminished considerably. In writing about crises, in Iran, Lebanon, Afghanistan and elsewhere, Waldheim describes the ""quiet, intensive diplomacy'' underlying peace-making efforts, and his frustrations over waning international cooperation. His memoir includes observations on disputes as well as heads of state, but it is his view of the U.N.'s shortcomings (``politicized'' debates, rivalries between sovereign states) and how they have evolved that will linger in the minds of readers. An idealisthe was born in Austria in the wake of the First World War and came of age during the SecondWaldheim argues that only global solidarity will allow the U.N. to live up to its charter. January 29