Gareth Roberts, author of "World War Twee," critiques the rise of twee culture in Britain, arguing it distracts from serious issues and leads to a tragic trivialization of society. Former 1922 Committee chair Graham Brady reflects on his influential role in British politics, discussing the challenges and absurdities he faced alongside party dynamics. Lastly, the conversation takes a festive turn as they debate the merits of pigs in blankets, sharing humorous anecdotes and creative culinary twists on this beloved holiday dish.
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insights INSIGHT
The Twee Takeover
British society is becoming increasingly sentimental and twee.
This trend is potentially dangerous and has deeper issues beneath the surface.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Yogurt Pot Evolution
Gareth Roberts noticed the rise of twee in the last 10 years, pinpointing 2013-2014 as a turning point.
He contrasts modern yogurt pots with older versions to illustrate the shift towards childish branding.
insights INSIGHT
Twee vs. Anger
The rise of twee may be a strategic response to the increasing anger in political and public life.
Consumer culture tries to create a soft, friendly image in contrast to the noisy, angry culture.
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Kingmaker: Secrets, Lies and the Truth about Five Prime Ministers
Kingmaker: Secrets, Lies and the Truth about Five Prime Ministers
Alex Burghart
Cooking and the Crown
Cooking and the Crown
Tom Parker Bowles
This week: are we drowning in a sea of twee?
Gareth Roberts writes the cover article this week, arguing against what he sees as the hideous triviality of our times. ‘The British have lost their aversion to glutinous sentimentality,’ he declares. How did we get here, and who are the worst offenders? Gareth argues that the triumph of twee has left us unable to face serious things with seriousness. Could there be sinister consequences if we don’t take this more seriously? Gareth joined the podcast to make his case, alongside Josh Cohen, psychoanalyst and author of All The Rage (00:49).
Then: was Graham Brady the ‘kingmaker’ or the ‘kingslayer’ of the past Tory era?
The shadow cabinet member and Conservative M.P. Alex Burghart has reviewed Graham Brady’s new book Kingmaker: Secrets, Lies and the Truth about Five Prime Ministers in the books section of the magazine this week. Looking back on his time as chair of the influential 1922 Committee, Graham provides his reflections on what has been an historic, and often turbulent, period in British politics. Having now taken a seat in the Lords, Graham joins the podcast with The Spectator’s political editor, Katy Balls, to reveal what he really thought about that time in office and what his advice to his successor would be (16:07).
And finally: are pigs in blankets the best Christmas food?
It would seem so, according to The Spectator’s data editor Michael Simmons, who provides his notes on the festive treat in the magazine this week. His only gripe, as a proud Scot, is that they should really be called ‘kilted sausages’. He reveals that Brits are expected to eat a whopping 668 million of them over the Christmas season. Why are they so good, and how can you elevate your Christmas meal over the coming season? Michael joins the podcast alongside Martyn Lee, head of product at Yeo Valley and the former executive chef of Waitrose and Tesco. Plus, a guest appearance of pigs in blankets from The Spectator’s local pub, The Two Chairmen – will they pass Michael’s taste test? (26:58).
Hosted by William Moore and Lara Prendergast.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons, Oscar Edmondson, and Cindy Yu.
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