Is the special relationship between Britain and the United States of America a figment of Britains imagination?

It seems that the idea of a special relationship between America and Britain has existed since the Second World War (Coxall, Robins [1998] p278) and it is clear to see that with the current situation regarding the possible conflict with Iraq, Tony Blair wishes to reinforce the idea of a close alliance with the US (The Daily Telegraph, [08.01.03]). However, Blair has suffered criticism suggesting that Britain is acting as Americas poodle (The Times, 1808.01.03) and this could imply that the British public do not feel such a strong alliance with America. Also in the past the relationship has at times been strained (coxall et al [1998] p56) yet it has also been strong. So, does this special relationship exist at all or is it just a figment of Britains imagination? During the course of this essay I hope to analyse the reality of the special relationship between Britain and America….(short extract)