Most people stop after two verses. Smart people. But the third verse is a goldmine. “Thy choicest gifts in store, on her be pleased to pour.” So we’re asking God to dump a treasure chest on her head? “Long may she reign.” Again with the longevity. She’s already reigning, Greg.
“May she defend our laws.” Ah, so she has a job too. Good. And then: “And ever give us cause, to sing with heart and voice.” So we’re basically saying: Keep giving us stuff to sing about, Your Majesty. It’s a transactional relationship. You defend, we karaoke.
But the real kicker? The final line: “God save the Queen.” Again. Because apparently, seven times isn’t enough. It’s the most repeated phrase in the English language, probably. Right up there with “sorry” and “one more pint.”
The Rebellion Verse No One Sings
Let’s be honest: there’s a cheeky version you might hear in a pub after three beers. “God save our gracious Queen, send her to Aberdeen.” Scandalous. Or the punk version by the Sex Pistols, which is a whole different level of chaos. But the official lyrics? They’re surprisingly violent for a nation known for queuing.
God save the Queen . National Anthem UK - YouTube
Imagine singing this in a school assembly. Little Timmy is belting out “scatter her enemies” with the same enthusiasm as “twinkle twinkle.” It’s adorable and terrifying. Is this where we learn diplomacy?
And then there’s the tune. The melody is the same as America’s “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” and Liechtenstein’s anthem. So if you ever hear a drunk American singing it at a wedding, just know they’re technically stealing your national anthem. Again.
