Lie back and think of England
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The phrase Lie back and think of England is an expression used in the United Kingdom. Traditionally, it was advice given to a woman about having sexual intercourse with her husband. The phrase became popular some decades before the sexual revolution. The assumption was that women were not expected to view sex as pleasurable; instead, women were to view sex as a duty, performed essentially through passive availability.
Since women weren't expected to participate in sex in any meaningful way, or derive any special pleasure from sex, it would not be incongruous to think of something other than sex during sexual acts. Thinking of the continuity of the Empire, through conception and child-rearing, might even make the sexual act more pleasant.
The origins of the phrase are unclear, but it is generally attributed to Lady Alice Hillingdon, wife of the 2nd Baron Hillingdon. She allegedly wrote in her journal in 1912, I am happy now that George calls on my bedchamber less frequently than of old. As it is, I now endure but two calls a week, and when I hear his steps outside my door I lie down on my bed, close my eyes, open my legs and think of England. However, the journal has never been found and there is therefore not verification of her authorship.
The phrase has also been attributed to a letter by Queen Victoria, with reference to childbirth[citation needed].
The phrase can be used broadly as encouragement for either gender to do something unpalatable.
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