In Hilary Mantel's "Bring Up the Bodies," young Surrey expresses his disenchantment with the current state of nobility in England. He reflects on how noblemen no longer command the respect they once had during England's more glorious times. His frustration is directed at the king, who surrounds himself with individuals of low status, suggesting that this shift in social dynamics will lead to negative outcomes for the kingdom.

As Surrey voices his complaints, Cranmer, the archbishop, seems to prepare to interject but is met with Surrey's disapproving glare. This tension indicates that Surrey views Cranmer as part of the problem he is lamenting, suggesting a wider theme of discontent among the nobility and their waning influence in the face of the king's choices.