Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, is known for lending her voice to causes she feels passionately about.
The 38-year-old new mother is proudly feminist and proactive about promoting change makers. In the September issue of British Vogue, which Meghan guest edited in collaboration with editor-in-chief Edward Enninful, the theme is “Forces for Change” and its cover features a range of “diverse… women from all walks of life, each driving impact and raising the bar for equality, kindness, justice and open mindedness”, including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
Within its pages you’ll find an exclusive interview between Duchess Meghan and former First Lady of the US Michelle Obama, a candid conversation between Prince Harry and primatologist Dr Jane Goodall about conservation, and articles written by Brene Brown and actor and body positivity advocate Jameela Jamil, to name a few.
“Equally you’ll find grassroots organisations and incredible trailblazers working tirelessly behind the scenes to change the world for the better,” it says on the Sussex Royal instagram account.
But there was something else in the September issue that has taken a few by surprise – not least because it’s bolder than many would give even Meghan credit for.
The duchess has included an excerpt from a poem about body image that she particularly loves.
A Note from the Beach by Matt Haig reminds the reader that we are enough, no matter what shape or size we are.
But what makes the inclusion of the excerpt extraordinary is that the poem contains an F bomb.
Yes, you read that correctly – the Duchess of Sussex and granddaughter-in-law to the Queen has dropped a swear word into one of the most celebrated magazines in the world.
Introducing the poem, Meghan writes: “A personal favourite and the best reminder during the summer season… or any season, as a matter of fact.”
The poem begins: “Hello. I am the beach. I am created by waves and currents. I was made of eroded rocks. I exist next to the sea.”
It continues in a similar vein for a few lines, then: “And I have to tell you something.
“I don’t care about your body.
“I am a beach. I literally don’t give a f—.”
Matt Haig shared the excerpt on his Instagram page, writing: “Officially in vogue.”
Many congratulated him, with one commenting: “You and the duchess have great taste 💁🏼♀️”
It’s no surprise that the duchess, who asked to guest edit the publication, would have taken on the project with some strong ideas.
It was also reported that she told cover photographer Peter Lindbergh in no uncertain terms that she wanted to see freckles on the cover; the word “natural” cropped up in serveral conversations about the cover.
“My instructions from the Duchess were clear: ‘I want to see freckles!'” the photographer shared.
“Well, that was like running through open doors for me. I love freckles…I hate retouching, I hate makeup. I always say, ‘Take the makeup off!’
But this took next level fearlessness. You’ve got to admire her for her that.
