Stephen Fry reveals the Queen Mother's disdain for technology

In a recent discussion at the Oldie literary lunch, British actor Stephen Fry shared an anecdote highlighting the Queen Mother's lack of enthusiasm for new technology. The story was relayed to him by Sir Martin Gilliat, who served as equerry to the late Queen Mother. He recounted an incident when her television was malfunctioning. Gilliat secured a replacement set from Harrods, which pleased the Queen Mother. However, upon receiving the new television, a critical component was missing: the buttons. As Gilliat explained the functionality of a remote control to her, the Queen Mother expressed surprise at the technology’s cleverness but still preferred simpler methods of communication. Her statement, “But I still think it’s easier to ring,” reflects a broader sentiment among certain individuals of her generation, who often find the rapid advancement of technology challenging and prefer familiar, traditional methods. This incident serves as a glimpse into the preferences of older generations towards technology, emphasizing a divide that spans across age groups. While technology has rapidly advanced to include innovations that drastically alter daily life, some individuals remain hesitant and nostalgic for simpler, more direct modes of interaction. The anecdote underscores a cultural shift in how technology is perceived and utilized, especially by those of a certain age, illustrating the contrast between a world increasingly intertwined with digital solutions and a more analog past that many still cherish. Fry's recounting of this experience not only brings to light the Queen Mother’s approach to technology but also provokes thought regarding society’s shifting relationship with tech and traditions.