Remember, remember, the Fifth of November...

[torkell]

...gunpowder, treason and plot.
I see no reason why gunpowder, treason
Should ever be forgot...

Today's traditional filler post reminded me of the State Opening of Parliament which I find fascinating, as so much of it is full of ceremony that has actual significance behind it. A MP really is held hostage against the Queen's safe return, the door to the Commons really is slammed in the face of the Crown's messenger (who fairly hammers on it in response - there's a mark left by his staff in the wood), and the cellars of Westminster really are searched the night before lest someone try to re-enact the Gunpowder Plot.