Spare

About the Author

Prince Henry Charles Albert David, Duke of Sussex, more commonly known as Prince Harry, has been a prominent figure on the world stage since his birth on September 15, 1984. As the younger son of King Charles III and the late Diana, Princess of Wales, Harry's life has been under constant public scrutiny. However, his journey from a young prince to a man who chose to step away from his royal duties is one marked by deep personal struggles, profound love, and a relentless pursuit of truth. In his memoir, Spare, Harry offers an unfiltered look into his life, revealing the complexities of being a royal "spare," the emotional toll of losing his mother, and his battles with mental health, all while navigating the intense media spotlight.

Main Idea

Spare is a deeply personal and candid memoir where Prince Harry recounts his life experiences, from his early days as the "spare" to the heir, through his military service, his relationship with Meghan Markle, and the reasons behind his and Meghan's departure from royal life. The book delves into Harry's struggle with mental health, his complicated relationships within the Royal Family, and the relentless pressure from the British media. It is a story of pain, love, resilience, and ultimately, a search for peace and autonomy.

Table of Contents

1. Family Relationships
2. Harry’s Military Career
3. Mental Health Struggles
4. Marriage to Meghan Markle
5. The Media and its Impact
6. Final Thoughts

Family Relationships

Prince Harry’s relationships with his family members are a central theme in Spare. He speaks with deep emotion about his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, whose death left a profound impact on him. Diana’s memory is a recurring presence throughout the book, shaping much of Harry’s worldview and actions. Harry's relationship with his father, King Charles III, is portrayed as one of affection but also distance. Charles is depicted as a kind but emotionally unavailable figure, struggling to connect with his son in meaningful ways. Harry’s relationship with his older brother, Prince William, is complex and often contentious. Despite their shared experiences, the pressures of their roles as "heir" and "spare" have led to tensions and misunderstandings.

The Late Queen Elizabeth II

Harry describes his relationship with his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, with great fondness. Despite the formality that surrounded her role as the monarch, Harry shares that they shared private jokes and a warm bond. However, the traditions and unspoken rules of the Royal Family often meant that displays of affection were rare, even in private. This lack of emotional openness within the family is something that Harry struggled with, especially as he watched the Queen express warmth to others during public engagements.

“Shows of affection between members of the Royal Family were practically unheard of, even in private. I couldn’t help but feel intense jealousy whenever I saw the Queen hugging a sick child during a hospital visit.” —Prince Harry

Diana, Princess of Wales

Diana, Princess of Wales, remains the most significant figure in Harry’s life. Her untimely death when Harry was just 12 years old left a void that has never fully healed. Harry recalls his mother with deep love and admiration, but also with profound sadness. He blames the press for her death, a belief that has fueled much of his later battles with the media.

“My memory after losing my mother was fragmented. Many of the things I remember from my childhood are actually stories I’ve heard secondhand. The press drove my mother to her death. They might as well have taken the wheel themselves.” —Prince Harry

Diana's legacy is evident in Harry's relentless efforts to protect his wife, Meghan, from the same fate. He sees his battle with the press and the decision to step back from royal duties as a continuation of his mother’s fight for autonomy and respect.