Best of the Spectator Spectator Out Loud: Max Jeffery, Tanya Gold, Madeline Grant, Matthew Parris and Calvin Po
Jun 6, 2025
Madeline Grant, the Assistant Editor at The Spectator, joins a lively discussion where she critiques the decline of authenticity in period dramas, arguing that modern adaptations often prioritize contemporary sensibilities over historical accuracy. Max Jeffery dives into the intriguing case of the Cambridge bike bandit, while Tanya Gold provocatively explores the commercialization of intimacy through the sale of bathwater, shedding light on its implications. Meanwhile, Matthew Parris reflects on the hidden narratives of history, and Calvin Po reveals the V&A East Storehouse’s innovative approach to museum accessibility.
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Cambridge Bike Bandit Anecdote
- Max Jeffery tracked down the Cambridge bike bandit selling stolen bikes openly from his yard.
- The bandit claimed most bikes came from university or city council disposals, not private theft.
Bathwater Selling and Mysophilia Insight
- Selling bathwater exploits a sad male fetish linked to material filth longing or mysophilia.
- This phenomenon reflects alienation rather than intimacy, substituting real connection with merchandise.
Decline of Authentic Period Dramas
- Period dramas now favor anachronisms and modern speech over historical accuracy, losing their charm.
- True appeal lies in showing timeless human folly transcending costume and era, which modern adaptations miss.