I have read a couple of books by Winterson in the past, to varying degrees of success. I really liked Oranges are Not the Only Fruit, but Sexing the Cherry left me absolutely baffled. Lighthousekeeping ended up being the one I’ve enjoyed the most so far. The style had a real Ali Smith vibe. I know sometimes experimental writing can be hit or miss, but this one was definitely a hit for me. It’s a story centred around stories. The stories that make up who we are, the stories we pass along, the stories that keep people alive when they’re long gone.
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It follows Silver, a young girl who lives in Salts with her mother, a tiny fishing village at the most north-westerly point of mainland Britain. She lives in a house built into a steep slope with her mother who was shunned by the main village. The pair must be tied together for safety when ascending to their house, but one day her mother loses her footing and falls, cutting herself loose to save her daughter. Silver, now orphaned, is sent to live with the blind lighthouse-keeper, Pew.
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In between Silver’s story, we also learn the story of Babel Dark who lived in the village in the 19th century. I loved the way Winterson wove together all of these stories, the story of Silver, of Pew, of Babel, and of the stories they all tell in turn. Winterson’s writing is lyrical yet succinct; she doesn’t meander, but her words feel like poetry. It’s a very addictive read, when I was able to sit down and read, I read most of it in two sittings.
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I’m also a sucker for wholesome friendships between young and old folk, of which Silver and Pew are a perfect example. Silver learns so much from Pew, and his wisdom remains with her long after he does.