Many were written in the 19th century. Few champion equality and diversity as modern minds might wish—and an improbably large number drip with blood. Time to update them
By Catherine Nixey: Britain correspondent, The Economistcan be tricky. The funeral of Elizabeth II moved with military surefootedness in every aspect except one: the singing of the anthem. A nation that had dutifully sung the same words for 70 years hesitated. “God save our gracious queen” seemed wrong . But “God save our gracious king” felt inappropriate, too: she was still lying there, after all. In Westminster Abbey, the congregation compromised.
The coronation of King Charles III, which will take place in May 2023, is a perfect opportunity for further updates. And Britain’s is not the only anthem that could do with a little editing. Many were written in the 19th century; few champion equality and diversity as modern minds might wish; and an improbably large number drip with blood. This variously streams generously ; spills purely ; dyes the flag red or waters the furrows impurely .
There are other challenges. Many anthems promote self-harm; some would benefit from trigger warnings. Italy’s romanticises death, while the “Children’s verse” in the Marseillaise encourages French infants to die like their elders and “share their coffins” rather than accept defeat.
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