From New Left Review, does Sarkozy’s victory mean the electorate is finally in tune? A review of Les Nouveaux chiens de garde by Serge Halimi. A look at why a language turned on its head is taken to heart by France. Theodore Dalrymple on the problem with leniency: France’s early release of Bernard Cantat sends the wrong message. It's a wonder Belgium has stayed united for so long: Now, after 156 days without a national government, the country is heading for meltdown. A review of Gomorrah: A Personal Journey Into the Violent International Empire of Naples’ Organized Crime System by Roberto Saviano. A fresh translation of the Portuguese classic The Maias by Eca de Queiros offers a poignant portrait of a country's decline. From New Statesman, a look at the top ten Tory twits: Conservative Party mavericks

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