Prince Harry's memoir 'Spare' analyzed as cultural phenomenon reflecting contemporary trauma narratives
Prince Harry's autobiography, 'Spare,' has become the fastest-selling nonfiction title, exploring his grievances regarding royal life and media scrutiny. It narrates his upbringing, highlighting how he had a smaller room at Balmoral compared to his brother William and later occupied just one floor at Kensington Palace. Harry expresses bitterness over William's philanthropic assertions in Africa and holds the press accountable for his mother Diana's passing. He criticizes the media's treatment of his wife, Meghan Markle, whom he likens to a reincarnation of Diana. Ghostwriter J.R. Moehringer merges royal fantasy with relatable stories, including a unique 'cock cushion' and his first sexual experience with an older woman. The memoir's popularity has ignited discussions about trauma and narratives of victimhood in royal entertainment.
Key facts
- Prince Harry's memoir 'Spare' is the fastest-selling nonfiction work on record
- The book was ghostwritten by J.R. Moehringer
- Harry details childhood grievances including receiving smaller rooms than his brother William
- He blames the press for his mother Diana's death
- Harry condemns media treatment of his wife Meghan Markle
- The memoir includes anecdotes about a South Pole trip with a custom-made 'cock cushion'
- Harry visited a medium in the US who confirmed his mother approved of his choices
- Media organizations including Spotify, Netflix and Penguin have paid millions to Harry and Meghan
Entities
Artists
- Pablo Larraín
- Kristen Stewart
Institutions
- Netflix
- Spotify
- Penguin
- ArtReview
Locations
- Balmoral
- Kensington Palace
- Lesotho
- Africa
- South Pole
- United States
- United Kingdom