A Century of Grace and Grit: Remembering Queen Elizabeth II
April 21 marks a significant milestone in history — the centenary of the birth of the late Queen Elizabeth II. To commemorate this momentous occasion, renowned biographer Robert Hardman offers an intimate look into the life of the monarch in his new book, Elizabeth II: In Private. In Public. The Inside Story. Drawing on unprecedented access to the royal family, the book provides a unique perspective on the private and public life of one of the most respected figures of the 20th and 21st centuries.
The Queen’s Unspoken Language
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Queen’s personality was her subtle form of communication. Known as “Queen speak,” it involved the use of raised eyebrows to convey different levels of disapproval. A single raised eyebrow indicated uncertainty, while two signified deep concern. The final signal, “Are you sure?” was often used to express outright disagreement.
The Queen also had a well-known silent signal of displeasure that could send shivers down the spine of even the most seasoned staff. This unspoken gesture, referred to as “The Look,” was reserved for those who crossed an invisible line.
Honesty Over Pretence
The Queen was famously straightforward and did not tolerate pretence. During a visit to Birmingham, she removed the word “very” from a speech that stated, “I am very glad to be back in Birmingham.” Her frankness extended beyond formal occasions. For instance, during a conversation at Windsor Castle, a cabinet minister mentioned he had spent years living in Slough. The Queen responded with a simple, yet telling, “Oh, you poor thing.”
The Queen’s Views on Harry and Meghan
While the Queen adored Prince Harry, her relationship with Meghan Markle was more complicated. There was a clear sense of exasperation when Harry decided to step away from royal duties, especially following the controversial Oprah interview. By the end, many believed that Harry had been influenced by others, though the Queen remained steadfast in her support for her son.
A Gentlemanly Encounter
In 1992, during a crowded reception, Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating placed his arm around the Queen. Contrary to some assumptions, she was not offended. Instead, she regarded him as being rather gentlemanly. The encounter was seen as a protective gesture, which the Queen appreciated.
The Final Days
In the last year of her life, the Queen was visibly weakened but still maintained her authority. Despite her declining health, there was no pressure for her to step down or abdicate. She was determined to ensure a smooth transition of power. She even invited all her great-grandchildren to Balmoral during the summer, although she did not intend to pass away there. However, it became clear that she would not leave the estate.
The Impact of Andrew’s Arrest
The Queen would have been heartbroken by the arrest of her son, Prince Andrew. Fortunately, she was not around to witness the events. However, she would not have expected any special treatment for her son. She was known for her strong sense of justice and would not have accepted excuses or explanations.
The Queen’s Relationship with Andrew
The Queen was deeply concerned about her son, Andrew. She saw him as vulnerable and often worried about the people around him. While she may have sometimes treated him like a child, she was far more perceptive than many gave her credit for. She could become exasperated by his actions, particularly when incidents occurred that were kept hidden from her.
One such incident involved Andrew striking the Master of the Household, Vice Admiral Sir Tony Johnstone-Burt, with a “kinetic blow.” Although people tried to keep it from the Queen, she eventually found out and remarked, “Oh, I’m sure he did it. That’s the sort of thing he does.” Prince Philip later wrote to apologise, and the Queen did not take Andrew’s side.
The Future of the Royal Family
Looking ahead, the royal family faces the challenge of ushering in a new golden era. King Charles III’s state visit to America for the 250th anniversary of US Independence is just the beginning. It is anticipated that the Prince and Princess of Wales will follow with a trip to the US later in the year. These visits could significantly influence public perception of the monarchy.
As for King Charles stepping down, it seems unlikely unless there are compelling health reasons. However, nothing is ever certain. The King appears to be fully engaged in his role, despite the many responsibilities he carries.
Conclusion
Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy is one of dedication, resilience, and unwavering service. Through the insights provided by Robert Hardman, we gain a deeper understanding of the woman behind the crown. Her life, marked by both public duty and private moments, continues to inspire and captivate.
