: Critics used the moment to highlight his long-standing reputation for being particular about his surroundings and tools, which had been documented in various unofficial biographies.
: Clearly exhausted and frustrated, he stood up and said, "Oh god, I hate this," before adding, "I can’t bear this bloody thing! [It's] what they do every stinking time." : Critics used the moment to highlight his
: The King was at the end of a grueling tour of the four nations of the United Kingdom, participating in ceremonies and greeting the public following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. This was actually the second "pen-related" issue of
This was actually the second "pen-related" issue of his first week as monarch. Days earlier, during his on September 10, he had gestured somewhat impatiently for an aide to move a pen tray that was cluttering the table where he was to sign the Proclamation. Together, these moments provided an early, unvarnished look at the new King's temperament during a period of high stress. : Many observers felt the outburst was a
: Many observers felt the outburst was a relatable sign of human grief and exhaustion. At 73 years old, Charles had been under immense public pressure and personal mourning for several days without rest.