In light of King Charles’ upcoming Australian tour, a columnist explores the unique cultural perspectives on monarchy and its value.

As King Charles prepares for an anticipated visit to Australia, where sentiments towards the monarchy may be lukewarm, an expert has shared insights into the significance of his role as the British monarch. In a recent column for the Mirror, journalist Fleet Street Fox offered a unique perspective on the absurdity and necessity of monarchy in modern society.

“Kingship is even sillier than celebrity,” Fox stated, asserting that a person lacking innate talents is elevated to a status of privilege, donning a “shiny hat” and enjoying preferential treatment. This notion is particularly relevant in contrasting the British acceptance of monarchy with Australia’s ongoing grappling with its colonial legacy and the royal institution. Fox suggested that while the British have embraced this ‘silliness,’ Australians are still navigating the complexities of what monarchy means in a modern context.

Fox articulated that the historical abolishment of the monarchy in some regions led to the emergence of a culture devoid of festive celebrations and fun. “We got rid of Royalty. It led to getting rid of Christmas, theatres, feathers in hats, and all other forms of fun. In its place, we got Old Ironsides, gloom, doom, and political princelings,” she wrote, positing that the return of royalty has brought a sense of levity back into society.

In her opinion, the monarchy serves a purpose, albeit a frivolous one, in providing entertainment and spectacle. “You may think it pathetic that a modern nation expends any energy on the ins and outs of a group of privileged idiots with barely a brain cell between them,” she remarked, drawing a parallel with popular television shows that might lack depth yet captivate audiences.

The columnist humorously referenced King Charles’ past, mentioning his infamous comment about wanting to be a tampon. “Yes, Charles once fantasised about being a tampon. But at least he never popped his collar up and cavorted with shop dummies in a badly lit alleyway,” Fox quipped, contrasting royal antics with those of fictional television characters.

Despite the criticisms often directed at the monarchy, Fox argues that its continuation is rooted in the understanding of its role within British culture. “We’ve come to terms with it,” she noted, implying that the monarchy, with all its quirks, remains an integral part of the national identity, offering a sense of tradition and continuity that resonates with many.

As the King embarks on his tour, it will be interesting to see how Australians respond to his presence and the ongoing conversation about the relevance of monarchy in contemporary society. While the royal family may seem ‘silly’ to some, it appears that, for others, its value lies in the cultural fabric it weaves—connecting past to present in an ever-evolving narrative.