Best of the Spectator
The Edition: how twee triumphed, Graham Brady on Tory turmoil & celebrating pigs in blankets
Dec 5, 2024
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.
37:08
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of 'twee' culture reflects a troubling trend of excessive sentimentality in British society, raising concerns about its impact on serious discourse.
- Graham Brady's reflections on his tenure reveal insights into the evolving dynamics of British politics during a tumultuous era for the Tory party.
Deep dives
The Rise of Twee in British Society
British society has become increasingly sentimental, a trend described as 'twee.' This phenomenon, noted by Gareth Roberts, suggests that the past decade has seen an upsurge in overly sweet and sentimental expressions in various aspects of life, from consumer products to politics. For instance, the branding of everyday items has shifted from straightforward to exaggerated storytelling, evident in yogurt packaging that emphasizes personal stories over simple, clear information. This transformation reflects a cultural shift towards a preference for softness and friendliness in public discourse, raising questions about the potential dangers of such sentimentality.
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