Annus Wonderfilis

In November, 1992 the Queen memorably described the previous year as her “annus horribilis.” To recap, Andrew and Fergie announced they were getting a divorce, Princess Anne and her first husband actually did get a divorce, Princess Diana’s “I want a divorce” manifesto was published, which resulted in her separation from Prince Charles, and just when it seemed as if things couldn’t get any worse, Windsor Castle caught on fire. A writer at the time wondered if the Queen ever found herself thinking, “God saved me for this?”  

Fast forward 20 years and it’s stunning how much things have changed. In 2012, the Queen and her family are basking in the warmth, affection and admiration of not only the British people, but people everywhere, in recognition of her 60 years as head of state. Charles and Camilla are a boringly uncontroversial married couple, and trust me, back in 1992 that was an outcome that was considered unthinkable. Will and Kate are down-to-earth and dutiful, with just enough glamour to keep things interesting, and that deliciously charming rascal Prince Harry is staying out of trouble and serving his country as an officer in the Army Air Corps. If she ever thinks about it, Her Majesty must feel that the future of the monarchy is in good hands. 

And yet… The phrase “future of the monarchy” hints at an eventuality that’s also hard to fathom. Even though she appears hale and hearty at the age of 86, reality is that the Queen can’t live forever, and one of these days the Brits will wake up to a new era. King Charles III will be on the throne and I’m guessing it will feel strange to everyone, not least Charles himself. Charles’s path, to marital happiness as well as to the throne, hasn’t always been smooth and his mother’s footsteps won’t be easy to fill. (If you’ve forgotten all the juicy details, go to Google and type in “Camillagate.”) There’s also uncertainty about what Camilla will be called. When their engagement was announced it was said that when time comes she will be titled “The Princess Consort,” but the longer they’re together as a married couple the stranger that compromise will feel. Even the national anthem will change. I wonder how long it will take to get used to hearing “God save our gracious King.” It’s all interesting to think about, but happily it’s also all in the future. For now the Queen is having a very good year and that’s something to cheer about.