Inside the UN Room

When a speech becomes a test of presence, pace, and belief.

The Architecture of Power

The room is U-shaped—curved tables forming a partial circle, delegates tucked into the arms of it. Flags. Nameplates. Folded papers. I stand at the open end, behind a podium, screen behind me.

A sound technician explains the microphone and clicker. He is kind. Small kindnesses feel significant at the edge of a stage.

I adjust the …