In her desperation she consulted Penny Thornton, an astrologer introduced to her by Sarah Ferguson. Diana admitted to Penny that she couldn't bear the pressure of her position any longer and that she had to leave the system. "One day you will be allowed out but you will be allowed out as opposed to divorcing," Penny told her, confirming Diana's existing opinion that she would never become queen.
This quote sheds light on the immense emotional and psychological strain faced by Princess Diana within her royal role. Her decision to turn to astrology indicates her feelings of helplessness and a desire for guidance beyond conventional channels, perhaps seeking reassurance or a different perspective in times of crisis. The mention of her interaction with Penny Thornton, facilitated through Sarah Ferguson, highlights the complex network of relationships and secret consultations that many public figures might engage in when seeking solace. The conversation about her leaving the 'system'—implying stepping away from royal duties or even her marriage—reflects her internal conflict and sense of entrapment. Penny Thornton’s statement about Diana being permitted to leave but not through divorce underscores the rigid expectations and societal constraints imposed on royalty, where divorce was often stigmatized and could threaten their dignity and standing. Diana’s conviction that she would never become queen emphasizes the depth of her disillusionment with the traditional royal succession and her perception of limited agency within the institution. Overall, this quote captures the internal struggles and the clandestine efforts by Diana to find a way out of her emotional imprisonment, illustrating the human side behind the public persona. It prompts reflection on how the pressures of public life can push individuals to seek unconventional help and consider drastic changes for their well-being.
