English rose (epithet)
English rose is a description, associated with English culture, that may be applied to a naturally attractive woman or girl of traditionally fair complexion who is from or is associated with England.
The description has a cultural reference to the national flower of England, the rose, and to its long tradition within English symbolism.The term "English rose" is found in Merrie England, a comic opera written by Basil Hood. He describes a garden where "women are the flowers" and in which "the sweetest blossom" or "fairest queen" is "the perfect English rose". The words are performed by a tenor in the role of Sir Walter Raleigh, in the presence of a May Queen, but regarding his secret love , a member of the household of Elizabeth I.
At the Funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales in 1997, Elton John performed a new version of his 1974 hit, "Candle in the Wind", which began with the adapted lyrics, "Goodbye England's rose...".
"Last of the English Roses" is a 2008 song by singer/songwriter Pete Doherty from his album Grace/Wastelands. English Rose is the name of the 2019 debut album by singer/songwriter Connie Constance; its first song is also titled "English Rose".Notable "English roses"
