Pomp and Circumstance: Why Britain's Traditions Matter [9781785909948]

Overview

In this extraordinary new book, former Secretary of State Penny Mordaunt and co-author Chris Lewis build on the success of their Sunday Times-bestselling Greater: Britain After the Storm to celebrate the traditions and values that underpin British life.

Pomp and Circumstance explores Britain’s traditions – both the ancient and the new. From coronations and national events to local customs, they provide stability, reinforce identity and foster resilience to help us steer a course through the uncertainties of tomorrow. Nations, organisations and communities that have them thrive. Where they are absent, it is harder to adapt to the fast-changing world.

At a time of great worry about our ability to adapt to an uncertain world, this book should give every Briton confidence and courage. It contains a unique perspective from someone who has had a ringside seat at many of our national events and crises over many years. Mordaunt, who in her ceremonial role as Lord President of the Council famously carried the Sword of State and presented the Jewelled Sword of Offering to King Charles III at his coronation, examines areas of traditional British culture – including the monarchy, Parliament, the law, sport and local traditions, as well as values such as sacrifice, courage and remembrance – to show how a country often thought of as old-fashioned actually uses its historical conventions to navigate the future.

Far from being a brake on progress, our traditions offer a predictable rhythm to life, promote values, encourage reflection and create a sense of continuity while allowing room for innovation and growth.