Of course, America has its own problems with this – some of which it exported to the UK. But it’s still, for all its faults, our best hope for freedom in a dangerous world, and it has the First Amendment. I believe in you.
For new readers here, don’t forget to subscribe (and check out the special offer in your email). To my current supporters – thank you, as ever, for keeping this thing afloat.
" Britain today is run by a strange cohort of people who have been educated to think that their own country is uniquely awful, its history unforgivable, and its traditions contemptible. They consider free speech dangerous and observable reality a matter of interpretation. They treat ordinary common sense like a biohazard...A new order emerged, characterised by utter contempt for the nation that gave them birth, and a positive genius for the administrative management of decline."
I had to re-read it to make sure he wasn't talking about the US.
Sadly, we have our own house to get in order; the Democrats and more than a few RINOs are going down the same destructive path! However, believe you me, we get it! Too many have fallen into the Slough of Despond. (See, for now at least, we are still reading John Bunyan)
3. do you think britain is a special case here? much of what you talk about across your work seems to be modern political tribal extremism which obviously waxes and wanes and manifests differently across time and geography (we still have these vibes in the us, but they are out of power at this particular moment). but you seem to be suggesting recently that britain has become somewhat a special case that is no longer explained by the broader western narratives of political dysfunction?
I’m British, so it really stings to watch a country’s cultural and political establishment treat its inheritance with such contempt, although it’s a symptom of a broader malaise across the West, as you say.
Britain is also the country of Locke and Mill, so there’s something especially tragic in a nation that gave so much to the development of liberalism and the open society, now run by a class that disdains both and apparently has no idea what it cost to get here.
That said, I’d rather cover this satirically, as I try to do here, rather than merely list grievances.
.. and you gave us Monty Python and the Beatles and football that is not soccer but rugby ... ... but rugby too ... and five day test cricket ... and also macaroni and cheese that even the Italians were unable to do and still cannot do ... and you won the world cup soccer once even though the Germans still think that you cheated although karma is karma and the little Argentinian's "Hand of God" then cheated you back ... Oh and the Sundays and London Grammar and the Moody Blues and David Bowie ... and you tamed Latin and got rid of the verb that changes depending on the person acting ... You are always a good read :)
For starters, I love the theme of asking for the Venezuelan treatment for Britain. And, regarding this specific comment, I’ve been thinking about our fortune and I’ve decided that we’re really not to blame, because the love that’s deep inside of us is still the same (…I’m ready to sing it if you can play).
Although this letter to America was written tongue-in-cheek, if things in Britain continue to get worse, people in the US may start looking at the UK as a security risk (I’m thinking of JD Vance’s comment that Britain could become the first nuclear-powered Muslim nation, although that ship already sailed with Pakistan). Given that Trump is already eyeing off Greenland in terms of US security, might he not also do the same with Britain? While some might feel that becoming the 51st state of the US would be a massive humiliation for the country that gave birth to the US, it will be as nothing compared to the humiliation that is awaiting us on the current trajectory.
Yes, it is very serious indeed. And the fury it’s starting to unleash will only compound over time, bringing out some very ugly elements.
I can’t help feeling the UK and Europe may be too far gone at this point. Perhaps that’s unduly pessimistic – and I don’t want to wallow in despair, which is why the 51st state option has a certain appeal. I’m at a stage now where, if I felt confident America would hold to its Constitution and other foundational principles, I’d put my lot in with them – certainly over Europe, which is doubling down on its own managed decline.
I’m sure they’re looking at us as a security risk and considering the fact that Starmer blocked the use of our bases forcing US planes to fly for 37 hours, they’d be right.
“We can be sure it won’t be dogs…” Wow! That’s brilliant. Also, mark my words; Jane Austen will be replaced with a terrorist on a bill. Very good article. Yet again. I just hope that the English middle and working class start voting. I know it seems futile to them, but it’s the only way.
The government puts the small boat migrants in middle and working class neighbourhoods, whether they want them there or not. They might as well vote against it.
Thanks, I'm glad you picked up the reference. Not everyone will. And yes, ultimately this is in the hands of voters, who must bear much of the responsibility.
Of course, America has its own problems with this – some of which it exported to the UK. But it’s still, for all its faults, our best hope for freedom in a dangerous world, and it has the First Amendment. I believe in you.
For new readers here, don’t forget to subscribe (and check out the special offer in your email). To my current supporters – thank you, as ever, for keeping this thing afloat.
Here’s to free and open societies.
" Britain today is run by a strange cohort of people who have been educated to think that their own country is uniquely awful, its history unforgivable, and its traditions contemptible. They consider free speech dangerous and observable reality a matter of interpretation. They treat ordinary common sense like a biohazard...A new order emerged, characterised by utter contempt for the nation that gave them birth, and a positive genius for the administrative management of decline."
I had to re-read it to make sure he wasn't talking about the US.
Yep, it’s everywhere. At least the US still has the First Amendment.
I like your style. I just upgraded to a paid subscription. Cheers.
Thanks for the support – very much appreciated. Welcome aboard.
Sadly, we have our own house to get in order; the Democrats and more than a few RINOs are going down the same destructive path! However, believe you me, we get it! Too many have fallen into the Slough of Despond. (See, for now at least, we are still reading John Bunyan)
1. great title
2. careful what you wish for
3. do you think britain is a special case here? much of what you talk about across your work seems to be modern political tribal extremism which obviously waxes and wanes and manifests differently across time and geography (we still have these vibes in the us, but they are out of power at this particular moment). but you seem to be suggesting recently that britain has become somewhat a special case that is no longer explained by the broader western narratives of political dysfunction?
I’m British, so it really stings to watch a country’s cultural and political establishment treat its inheritance with such contempt, although it’s a symptom of a broader malaise across the West, as you say.
Britain is also the country of Locke and Mill, so there’s something especially tragic in a nation that gave so much to the development of liberalism and the open society, now run by a class that disdains both and apparently has no idea what it cost to get here.
That said, I’d rather cover this satirically, as I try to do here, rather than merely list grievances.
.. and you gave us Monty Python and the Beatles and football that is not soccer but rugby ... ... but rugby too ... and five day test cricket ... and also macaroni and cheese that even the Italians were unable to do and still cannot do ... and you won the world cup soccer once even though the Germans still think that you cheated although karma is karma and the little Argentinian's "Hand of God" then cheated you back ... Oh and the Sundays and London Grammar and the Moody Blues and David Bowie ... and you tamed Latin and got rid of the verb that changes depending on the person acting ... You are always a good read :)
Great list – and thanks.
For starters, I love the theme of asking for the Venezuelan treatment for Britain. And, regarding this specific comment, I’ve been thinking about our fortune and I’ve decided that we’re really not to blame, because the love that’s deep inside of us is still the same (…I’m ready to sing it if you can play).
Sorry, mate. Hands full at the moment.
Will include biscuits with the tea...
Although this letter to America was written tongue-in-cheek, if things in Britain continue to get worse, people in the US may start looking at the UK as a security risk (I’m thinking of JD Vance’s comment that Britain could become the first nuclear-powered Muslim nation, although that ship already sailed with Pakistan). Given that Trump is already eyeing off Greenland in terms of US security, might he not also do the same with Britain? While some might feel that becoming the 51st state of the US would be a massive humiliation for the country that gave birth to the US, it will be as nothing compared to the humiliation that is awaiting us on the current trajectory.
Yes, it is very serious indeed. And the fury it’s starting to unleash will only compound over time, bringing out some very ugly elements.
I can’t help feeling the UK and Europe may be too far gone at this point. Perhaps that’s unduly pessimistic – and I don’t want to wallow in despair, which is why the 51st state option has a certain appeal. I’m at a stage now where, if I felt confident America would hold to its Constitution and other foundational principles, I’d put my lot in with them – certainly over Europe, which is doubling down on its own managed decline.
I’m sure they’re looking at us as a security risk and considering the fact that Starmer blocked the use of our bases forcing US planes to fly for 37 hours, they’d be right.
I would too - the First Amendment would be a significant upgrade.
☝️😎
“We can be sure it won’t be dogs…” Wow! That’s brilliant. Also, mark my words; Jane Austen will be replaced with a terrorist on a bill. Very good article. Yet again. I just hope that the English middle and working class start voting. I know it seems futile to them, but it’s the only way.
The government puts the small boat migrants in middle and working class neighbourhoods, whether they want them there or not. They might as well vote against it.
Thanks, I'm glad you picked up the reference. Not everyone will. And yes, ultimately this is in the hands of voters, who must bear much of the responsibility.
You need compulsory voting?! (Australian speaking.)
I think you're probably right about that.
Wonderful! I can provide home baked cakes.
Frederick. Honestly get a fucking grip for fuck sake.
Strong words. Is there a point somewhere?