G. V. Chappell

Freelance writer and content designer

United Kingdom

I am a British writer and commentator who contributes regularly to The Spectator, where I pen essays on culture, society and everyday life. My Spectator Life pieces range from reflections on public transport and ageing to cultural observations and social commentary rooted in my own experiences living in Bristol. My writing blends personal anecdote with sharp, thoughtful insight, capturing the quirks and contradictions of contemporary British life. 

I also have a Substack page where I write long-form essays and reflections beyond the daily scroll.

Portfolio
The Spectator
02/06/2026
Bring back hats!

Hats used to denote status. Now, unless you're in the services, people would be hard-pressed to determine your seniority or rank from a hat.

The Spectator
04/01/2024
Growing up straight

My Dad was a criminal. So he put me through private school to make sure I wouldn't follow in his footsteps.

The Spectator
09/17/2024
Confessions of a gentrifier

Those who oppose gentrification have criticised Gail's bakery for apparently spearheading the middle-classes influx into poorer areas.

The Spectator
10/23/2024
An old codger's guide to ageing

Reflections on the bond of old university friends who reunite and laugh through the challenges of growing old.

The Spectator
06/11/2025
When did we become so boring?

From Oliver Reed to Keith Floyd, a call to bring back real characters to our screens and return to the era of the bon viveur.

The Spectator
07/08/2025
Meet the Stepford Employees

The hegemony of HR has led to employees that are disengaged and unhappy. It's having a cost on our social lives - and the global economy.

The Spectator
07/28/2025
The ballad of broken Britain

In my corner of Bristol, alongside drug dealers, shoplifters and street drinkers, we now have our very own pyromaniac. They started small - an abandoned office chair, a clothing bank and an old telephone box - before moving on to bigger things.