LADY OXFORD* is an unfortunate person. The suggestion that it implies is, of course, that it is only by killing that the killed can properly be remembered — a pagan sentiment, against which Lady Oxford did well to protest. But when she refers to the “hideous and expensive war memorials” in English villages, she is, as is her habit, using the language of absurd and uncontrolled exaggeration. For the greater part, the village war memorials are simple, tasteful, and appropriate, paid for with the pence of the sorrowing bereaved in memory of their beloved dead. *often known as Margot AsquithThe Church Times digital archive is available free to subscribers.

Source: The Times October 31, 2025 00:10 UTC