Consider England

by Linda Proud

What is it that makes England English? What are the quintessentially English qualities? The author makes no claim to have discovered the definitive answer, but suggests that, "like a golden thread that is only visible when the sun shines on it, that which is most precious to the English is that which is commonly taken for granted". This book invites a reappraisal. The book suggests that qualities which have been very dear to the English over the ages, even though they have been covered over from time to time, are freedom, justice and truth. These qualities have found their expression in the development of the language, with its innate rhythms and simple structures, embodied in a literary tradition of extraordinary variety and richness. They are evident in the tenets of the Common Law and the unwritten constitution of a free nation. They may be traced through a spiritual heritage distinct from dogma and sectarian bigotry. There is also a reminder of the part man has played in shaping the beauty of the countryside, a landscape that reflects the English character. At a time of bewildering change in the affairs of the world and the nation, this book gives readers an opportunity to reflect on those things which could be endangered by neglect and ignorance. The text is accompanied by 90 of Valerie Petts's paintings in that most English of art media, the watercolour. Together, word and picture celebrate the beauty and character of both rural and urban England, and invite readers to consider the English nation anew.

144 pages, Hardcover

First published November 7, 1994

About the author

I was born in the land of no hope and, around age 19, opted out and started saying no to everything life had to offer. I had a glorious two years of belated childhood then everything went dark. Though the pressure to conform suddenly intensified, I carried on saying no. I said no to what appeared to be my last chance. Then everything changed. I went into this period as a painter, came out as a writer, and since then I've said yes to everything and life has been completely magical.

While I was in Hades, I returned to a topic that had interested me at college, that of the Renaissance. Before long I was driven to tell the story of the men and ideas that surrounded Botticelli, against the dramatic backdrop of the Pazzi Conspiracy. I had to learn writing skills as I went. I had no idea, then, that I was writing a trilogy and that it would take thirty years to complete.

I supported myself with a career in picture research, then in teaching creative writing to American students on Oxford programmes. I also worked as an editor with one of the top literary consultancies, helping first time authors improve their chances of publication. Now I write full time (when the allotment and the backyard chickens allow), working on a duology set in ancient Britain. The first novel, Chariot of the Soul, was published in 2018.

More information can be found on
my website and Wikipedia. Sarah Johnson conducted a very good interview which can be found on readingthepast in March/April 2008.

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Reviews

[Graham Robertson]

I'm not sure what this book purports to be, whether it's trying to be a history of England or a commentary on English life and its way of life, or just a celebration of Englishness.
There are some nice watercolor illustrations and quotations but other than that I didn't find that I learned anything from it.