Monday, September 19, 2022
I have to admit, I’m fascinated by the pomp and pageantry of the British monarchy at this time of mourning. The details and protocols are impressive (and often stupefying, as with the bee keeper at Balmoral required to officially inform the bees of the Queen’s death). At the same time, watching grown men bedecked in robes, ribbons, medals, swords, and other ancient indications of rank and office in 2022 is a bit astonishing. People watching this, in person or on television, remind me somewhat of a phenomenon at Disneyland or Universal Studios—a time trip into the past.
The Queen was dignified, smart, and an exemplar in many ways. I do believe that she’s the end of the “old time” monarchs. I don’t know if the time and expense of the anachronism is worth it or not, though it may be the only window left for many to look back on simpler, more civil times.
God Save the King.