Don't forget this was the 1970s. The British 'stiff upper lip' was still normal back then - there were still people around who had vivid memories of the Blitz and who had served in the war and the national service campaigns of the 50s, they just couldn't afford to break down in tears all the time. When they did, it was usually done in private to keep up morale with others.
I know people of this generation and even when bereaved I have seen them keep up appearances and remain composed in public at funerals etc.
It's just that in our modern era we have become used to the idea that we should 'let it all hang out' and weep and wail at the slightest excuse.
reply
share