Why Did Prince Harry Call His Book 'Spare'?

The title 'Spare' for Prince Harry's book has been the subject of much speculation and commentary. It raises the question: Why, despite his deep ambivalence about being referred to as the 'spare' prince, would he still choose this title for his book? Let's delve into the reasons behind this fascinating choice.

The Royal Line of Succession: A Brief Overview

In the British monarchy, the line of succession has historically followed the primogeniture rule, where the throne is passed down through the male line. This means that the eldest son of the sovereign has the highest claim to the throne. Consequently, the second son is often referred to as the 'spare' heir, as he only stands to inherit the throne if the elder brother fails to produce a male heir or dies unexpectedly.

Prince Harry, as the second son of Queen Elizabeth II and Duke of Edinburgh, was indeed a ‘spare’ in the traditional sense. He could only become king if Prince Charles (his elder brother) and his descendants died without producing a male heir. Now, with Prince William and the younger generation, Harry has dropped behind in the line of succession. This has exacerbated his feelings of being marginalized.

Why 'Spare' and the Psychological Aspect

Prince Harry’s choice of the title 'Spare' for his book is not merely a reflection of his perceived status in the monarchy, but it also taps into a deeper psychological narrative. For Harry, the title 'spare' symbolizes his sense of being an outsider or an unwanted figure within the royal family.

Psychologically, the 'spare' moniker has had a profound impact on Harry's identity and self-perception. It has been suggested that he feels bitter and twisted about being in this position. By branding his book with such a title, Harry is aiming to evoke sympathy and provoke discussions about his position in the royal family.

The Victim Mentality and Public Perception

Harry has often been criticized for his self-pity and victim mentality, especially when it comes to the handling of his mental health struggles and the pressures of his role as a member of the royal family. Critics argue that by using the 'spare' title, Harry is feeding into this narrative, allowing his story to be one of victimhood rather than strength and resilience.

However, it is important to recognize that Harry has faced a plethora of challenges, including personal struggles with mental health, relationships, and the scrutiny of the media. His book offers a platform to share his story, his perspectives, and his reaction to the events that have shaped him.

The Historical Context: Other 'Spare' Heirs

The fate of being labeled as a 'spare' extends beyond Prince Harry. Other notable examples in royal history include:

Princess Margaret: Known for her liberal and scandalous lifestyle, Margaret's life was significantly influenced by her mother's preference for a son. She embraced much more public and personal freedom, which could be seen as a radical departure from the expected royal behavior. Duke of York (Andrew): Andrew's title as 'spare' has often been associated with his scandals and unprofessional behavior. His role in the royal family has been marred by allegations and controversies, leading many to view his title more negatively. Prince Edward: Edward, like his brothers, faced the scrutiny of being a 'spare' heir. His lack of public profile and the emphasis on his royal duties reflect the varying ways in which the 'spare' title manifests.

Each of these individuals has had a unique experience and impact on the monarchy, influenced by their position as 'spares.' Harry’s book is a lens through which we can explore these experiences and the broader narrative of the royal succession.

The Purpose and Impact of the Book

Prince Harry's book serves multiple purposes. First, it allows him to set the record straight and share his story in his own words. Unlike leaks and unnamed sources, Harry has chosen to take full responsibility for his narrative. His book also serves as a platform for personal reflection and a critique of the pressures and expectations placed on him as a member of the royal family.

The book not only addresses his personal experiences but also raises important questions about the monarchy and its future. By acknowledging the various challenges he has faced, Harry invites a broader conversation about the monarchical system and its place in modern society.

In conclusion, the choice of the title 'Spare' for Harry's book is deeply rooted in the psychological and historical dynamics of the royal succession. While it may evoke sympathy and a sense of victimhood, it also underscores the broader narrative of being a 'spare' heir and its impact on individuals and the institution of the monarchy.