This Blessed Plot
We often define ourselves by the stories we tell about our past, clinging to a cherished identity even when the world around us shifts. For Britain, this reflex has played out for centuries in its intricate, often fraught relationship with Europe. Hugo Young’s "This Blessed Plot" reveals how a powerful national self-image, forged by geography and historical grandeur, has consistently shaped — and sometimes constrained — Britain’s political destiny. It’s the quiet, persistent belief that 'we’ve always done it this way,' even when the world outside has fundamentally changed, leading to a hesitant, conditional engagement. This isn't just a history of treaties and politics; it’s a deep dive into the emotional pull of national independence versus the undeniable reality of interdependence. It feels like being part of a family, but always keeping one foot out the door, just in case.