New Iron Age Romp (Press, 21 March 1987)
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Summary: New Iron Age Romp (Press, 21 March 1987)
"The Fires of Bride," a novel by Ellen Galford published by The Women’s Press/Century Hutchinson in 1986, is a humorous exploration of lesbian relationships set on a fictional Scottish island called Cailleach. The island, inspired by the Outer Hebrides, is steeped in pagan mythology and features remnants of its past, such as a circle of stones. Although it has traces of Christianity, the narrative reveals that Cailleach was also the site of a convent founded by Saint Bride, aiming to provide women a space to thrive away from male influence. The story revolves around Dr Catriona McEochan, a local landowner and general practitioner who actively supports the arts. She becomes involved with Maria Milleny, a young woman whose creativity and emotional well-being are stifled in London. Catriona hopes to nurture Maria’s artistic talents, but their romantic relationship becomes unfulfilling, leading to a sterility in their partnership. The catalyst for Maria's transformation comes when she decides to live independently. It is during her solitude that she connects with the symbolic and literal "Fire of Saint Bride," spurring her to create art from scrap metal found on the island. As Maria begins to forge her own identity and artistic style, crafting Iron Age-inspired monuments, she gains both fame and personal satisfaction. Meanwhile, Catriona continues to weave her intricate schemes, highlighting the complexities of their relationship dynamics. The novel also offers a satirical take on the tourism industry and reflects the British public's ambivalence towards the culture of the Western Isles. While the book is entertaining and well-written, the reviewer, Glyn Strange, remarks that the logo of The Women’s Press, which features an iron associated with traditional household roles, constrains the broader themes of the novel. Nonetheless, Strange concludes that Galford and her characters transcend such limits, showcasing depth and creativity throughout the narrative.
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