Beside the embarrassments caused by some of her children, Michelle Morgan’s book is not all heavy going with plenty to interest even those ambivalent to the British royals
Queen Elizabeth II in 2011. Photo: Eddie Mulholland/WPA Pool/Getty
Some people in public life eventually become so iconic that their name is instantly recognisable, even in shorthand. If you mentioned “the queen” at any point over the last 70 years everyone knew who you meant.
Not the queen of Spain or Netherlands, not the Queen of Hearts, not the Freddie Mercury band; you’re obviously talking about Queen Elizabeth II of England. Only the most performatively “barstool republican” – a tedious breed, best avoided in conversation – would pretend they don’t know who you’re referring to.