Queen Camilla fondly recalled a wish from the late Jilly Cooper – to “get plastered” – during an event celebrating literature, highlighting the beloved author’s zest for life amidst widespread tributes following her recent death. The Queen’s comments came as she officially opened the inaugural Jilly Cooper Literary Festival, underscoring the enduring impact of Cooper’s work and the outpouring of affection from fellow writers and readers alike.
Dame Jilly Cooper, renowned for her “bonkbuster” novels exploring themes of sex, affection, and equestrianism, died earlier this week after a fall. Her passing has prompted an outpouring of remembrance, with many recalling her vibrant personality and captivating storytelling. The festival, and the Queen’s attendance, serves as a testament to Cooper’s legacy and her notable contribution to British literature.
During a reception at the festival, held in the French dining room, Queen Camilla shared a personal anecdote about Cooper’s playful spirit. She also revealed that Cooper was a fan of the Vesper Martini, the cocktail famously associated with James Bond, created by Cooper’s contemporary, Ian Fleming.
The Queen met with the festival’s founders and panellists, and delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of reading and studying literature before participating in a panel discussion. Attendees at the reception included Sir Salman Rushdie and Sir Ian Rankin,both of whom shared their admiration for the late author.
Sir Ian Rankin revealed he had read Cooper’s novel Rivals and “loved it,” adding that he had maintained contact with her over the years, receiving “lovely letters…long letters and cards and everything.” He jokingly remarked that his wife had been “quite worried” about the correspondence. Rankin described Cooper as a ”terrific writer,” while Sir Salman Rushdie simply acknowledged it as “a sad loss.”
Earlier in the week, the Queen had already publicly honored Cooper, expressing hope that her afterlife woudl be filled “with impossibly handsome men and devoted dogs.” The festival continues to celebrate Cooper’s life and work, ensuring her stories and spirit will resonate with readers for years to come.
