In her annual Christmas address, Queen Elizabeth II referred to the outgoing year 1992 as “annus horribilis,” the horrible year. This was understandable. Prince Charles’s marriage to Princess Diana collapsed, and her home at historic Windsor Castle was severely damaged by fire.

It would be even more appropriate to refer to 2020 as “annus horribilis.” The Covid-19 pandemic, the severe lockdown that may well have been an over-reaction, the resulting business failures and lost jobs, the social isolation of masking and lockdowns, the closed schools – surely all these did not make for a happy, prosperous year. And then we had the controversial general election to add to the merriment.

But I suggest that we add to the unpleasant mix the concept of “anus horribilis” or horrible bunghole. There are many candidates for this unenviable title.

First Dr. Fauci told us that Covid-19 was not transmitted person-to-person and masks were unnecessary. Then he told us that it was transmitted person-to-person and masks were essential. In fact, they were so essential that they had to be worn when walking outside alone, and even during strenuous physical exercise. We recall the woman track star who collapsed on her face after running 800 meters (1/2 mile) in a mask. Or more likely we don’t recall – the media largely ignored her, as they ignore most news that undermines the official narrative.

Not satisfied, Dr. Fauci then told us to wear 2 masks, and was seen doing so himself. He added that masks must be worn even after full vaccination, but did not say why. The ultimate example of this rule was Vice President Harris kissing her husband at the airfield, both fully vaccinated, and both in masks. Surely this deserves some sort of recognition.

I leave to you further nominations for the title “anus horribilis.” I’m certain you can come up with several, in both public and private life. As the proverb tells us, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. And when “annus horribilis” arrives to torment us, we can be sure that at least one “anus horribilis” will arise to make things even worse.

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