After the death of Queen Elizabeth; may she rest in peace (RIP), Prince Charles Ⅲ is expected to lug the torch. How will the new monarch fare?
Since 1953, when Elizabeth was coronated as Queen, she has reportedly been a stable figure in a world that has undergone much change. However; as King, Charles is expected to be vastly different.
For example, while Elizabeth’s opinions were closely guarded, Prince Charles was outspoken on the environment. The Queen lived without incident but public opinion says the Prince has no claim to moral leadership. These are textbook examples of their differences.
So far Charles hasn’t been perceived as gracious or friendly. Already, a simple hand gesture of his has been viewed as a show of anger. The British people are touchy toward their new King. Nevertheless, he’s is pulling out all the stops. For example, weekly State visits of him and the Prime Minister are televised.
At 72, there is no way Charles could last as long as his mother who lived to a ripe old age of 96. Furthermore, to speak of one’s death is taboo. However, news reports say that King Charles is the best reason to bring an end to the British monarchy. It appears his majesty and the whole idea of the royal crown is on the ropes.
Lug the torch: To maintain a custom
Rest in peace: A phrase used as a wish for one who has died.
Commonwealth: A group of persons united by some common interest.
To undergo: To experience or be subjected to.
Outspoken: to say or express candidly or with boldness; honest.
Irreprehensible: nothing bad can be said about you.
Textbook example (of something): A clear and characteristic instance, example, or demonstration of something.
Pulling out all the stops: To make a great effort to achieve something.
No way: absolutely not; no chance.
Last: to remain functional, serviceable, or adequate up to the same point in the future.
Taboo: excluded or forbidden from use, approach, or mention.
On the ropes: on the verge of, close to, or near defeat or ruin.
QUESTION AND ANSWER WITH THE TEACHER
Who, What, Where, When, Why, How
Q&A WITH A PARTNER IN YOUR OWN WORDS
Ask the same questions as the teacher or form your own.
What is the moral of the story or what lessons have you learned?
What experiences have you had with the new idioms you’ve learned?