Thanks for this. I know what you mean about Judaism and ritual (though I wonder how much this has to do with me not understanding most prayers when they're in Hebrew!) and about the monarchy not feeling like a particular priority for reform.
Right! Being pro-devolution to local government has been one of the few political principles I've clung to consistently since 2016. And I'm not sure how far I actually agree with him that it's superficial without other reforms (self-government is a thing you learn, right?). But the piece made me think a lot harder about it all.
No power, just powerful vibes... one way to look at it is that they're partly at the service of the wider top-down, "monarchical" system, even as they're obviously a part of it. Charles does occasionally look like a hostage.
Superb article, that as a leftist, (old school) metal fan, sums up a lot of my own feelings. I find the royal family ridiculous but I don’t care that much about them & I agree there’s far more important things to get worked up about.
Not exactly a piss take but certainly a sense that it isn't necessarily 'real' (depending on sub-genre). As you say, it often takes a while to recognise when it is real
That's pretty much exactly how I think too, Keith. Thanks for articulating myself to myself!
My pleasure!
Thanks for this. I know what you mean about Judaism and ritual (though I wonder how much this has to do with me not understanding most prayers when they're in Hebrew!) and about the monarchy not feeling like a particular priority for reform.
On the latter... I'm not sure if it's making the same argument, or a variation, or even disagreeing, but I thought this from Neal Ascherson was very good: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2023/may/07/king-charles-are-we-ready-for-a-republic
Brilliant article!
Right! Being pro-devolution to local government has been one of the few political principles I've clung to consistently since 2016. And I'm not sure how far I actually agree with him that it's superficial without other reforms (self-government is a thing you learn, right?). But the piece made me think a lot harder about it all.
It made me think more deeply. Sometimes I can be a bit complacent that 'the royals have no power'
No power, just powerful vibes... one way to look at it is that they're partly at the service of the wider top-down, "monarchical" system, even as they're obviously a part of it. Charles does occasionally look like a hostage.
Manowar we’re ridiculous but entertaining.
Superb article, that as a leftist, (old school) metal fan, sums up a lot of my own feelings. I find the royal family ridiculous but I don’t care that much about them & I agree there’s far more important things to get worked up about.
Thanks Trevor!
Not exactly a piss take but certainly a sense that it isn't necessarily 'real' (depending on sub-genre). As you say, it often takes a while to recognise when it is real