The Just Thought I'd Share Thread

[Artemis]

Originally Posted by Nikolaj

With so many in this thread from England, I have questions- What are your various opinions of the Royal Family? Namely The Queen, Prince Charles, Camilla, Harry and William? Is it so, as it seems, that no-one is concerned much with the husband of The Queen? He seems off the radar, here in The States.
1. Many Americans get their opinions about the British Royal Family via the television. It seems like they are held in high regard by their loyal subjects. Are there many discontent, who speak out unfavorably? Do other English people shun those, also English, who don't love the Royals? Or, is the population generally happy with them, and no division of much importance exists on the topic?
2. Does Prince Charles have a last name? He must. You all must know it. It's like he's Madonna or Cher, we never hear a last name here in The States. What is The Queen's first, maiden name, and married last name? Is she thought to still be sound of mind, or is her agedness of concern to the country's population?
3. Is media coverage in Europe as 'fawning' over The Royals as what I have seen here in The States? It's strange to me, because the commentators speak of The Queen like she is this impish little darling, almost like one would speak of a favorite pet who learned a new trick. I find this odd, but realize it is a different culture. There are 2 news reporters, both British, who often would be interviewed on US television about the Queen, and they'd take such delight in her, and I always wondered why. One was male, the other female, and they both had giddy tones when discussing The Royals, such joy. Is that only for media outside of your country? I suspect coverage may be more balanced, for you there.
4. Socially, is Harry off-limits, regarding any discussion of a possibility that Prince Charles is not really his biological father? Here in The States, there had been speculation (that has died down) about this topic.
5. Does the population generally regard the titles of "Sir" and "Dame" with great seriousness and reverence? Would it be considered in very bad taste to ever joke about them? For example, saying "Dame Elton John" and "Sir Judi Dench"- would that make people angry in your culture? Or to speculate about in the future there being a "Sir Boy George," "Sir James Hewitt", or "Dame Amy Winehouse?" I suspect that it might not be something people would joke about in England, but would like to know, for certain.
I have many other questions, but that's plenty for now. I have a lot of interest in and respect for the British. I would like to live in London, and, I think, get old and die there. After my parents are gone, hopefully a long time from now, I completely see myself leaving America. At the very least; an extended stay in London likely will be in my future, unless I were to die before doing so, which could definitely reduce my chances!

Ooh. Just saw this.

Maybe you don't hear about Prince Phillip and his numerous controversies over in the US, but in England, he's pretty notorious for putting his foot in it. Example, I heard this on a TV show -

"What would Prince Phillip say?"
"Something racist, probably"

I see Andrew, Beatrice and Eugene in the papers quite often, same with Anne, but, it's mainly all about the Queen, Charles, Camilla and the two lads.

1) I think that everyone just excepts that the Royal Family are... there. They're still adored by some members of society; such as the hysteria over the William/Kate engagement proves. I think people "grumble" about them, from time to time, but they would never get rid of them.

2) I thought the Royal Family's last name was just "Windsor" could be mistaken though. As for the Queen, I'd bet a tenner that if someone isn't a fan of the Royal Family, they'll grudgingly respect the Queen. For some, they don't have the time of day for any of the Royals, other than the Queen.

Her age is never mentioned, other than "Now in her 80s, the Queen shows no signs of slowing down" etc.

3) I'd say the coverage is a lot more balanced over here. While we DO get the gushing types, there are those quick to criticise the Monarchy, or at least, not act like the sun shines out of their every orifice.

4) I don't think it's mentioned, I'd never heard about it until recently, which surprised me. I think it's the whole notion of almost making Diana a saint in the media that stops that question being discussed.

5) Eh. With Dame and Sir, they're just honorific titles, there's always speculation about who will be in the New Years Honours list... but generally, I don't think anyone cares, or at least, they won't be offended if you take the mick out of them.

A Dame Amy Wino is a scary thought. What would she WEAR to the ceremony?

Originally Posted by Silver Springs

Hehe. Not all Girls. I have only a couple of pairs and I'm happy with that. I don't see the point of shoes as a fashion accessory, rather an implement designed to fulfil a purpose.

Yay! A sane girl. I like shopping as much as the next person, mainly because it's fun to criticise outfits and people-spot, but... I just don't get shoes. People spend 400 pounds on one pair? Madness. I'd want 15 for that price.