Between the Old World and the New: Reflections on Politics, Culture, and Society
Patrick Wintour's article about Donald Trump's impact on international law is cited in letters that link Antonio Gramsci's concept of the dying old world with lines from Matthew Arnold, highlighting the tensions between past and future. In politically charged correspondence, Jim Hatley of Brighton suggests renaming Washington as Trumpton, referencing the 1985 "Trumpton Riots" song as a cautionary tale about socialist movements.
Alan Apperley from Cannock draws attention to humor in public signage by citing a spoof sign claiming that "on September 5, 1782 nothing happened," illustrating how satire can engage with history. Ian Harley of Fair Oak reflects philosophically on a stage of life marked by not having seen the best TV shows of 2025 and even forgetting whether one has seen them.
Rhoda Koenig from London raises ethical questions surrounding the abuse faced by victims of Nigel Farage, querying whether it was motivated by racism or antisemitism and whether there can be a moral endpoint to such abuse. Dr. John Doherty from Stratford-upon-Avon observes that Kemi Badenoch was the only party leader to mention the birth of Christ in her Christmas message, posing the question of whether the Conservative Party has found a new saviour.
Overall, these letters explore a range of contemporary issues including poetry, philosophy, international law, political leadership, and cultural memory, all reflecting on the evolving landscape of politics and society.
