We are the spaces between words.
Gail Holmes’ In the Margins offers a richly descriptive and engaging look at 17th century England, blending elements of Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility with the dramatic flair of Shakespeare. Inspired by a real person, it is a glimpse into the life of a spirited book collector – Frances Wolfreston – who uniquely preserved the earliest part of Shakespeare’s body of work. This novel provides a deeply English setting, steeped in the complexities of Puritan times and reflects a well-researched portrayal of life during this period.
The narrative takes place over a span of six months in 1647 and centres on Frances, a character whose literacy and intellectual curiosity challenge the norms of her era. As the civil war recedes into an uneasy peace and Puritanism becomes the unyielding law of the land, Frances, a rector’s wife, finds herself tasked with enforcing religious compliance within her community. Against this turbulent backdrop, she takes increasingly bold steps to support the women and children of the church, driven by a deep seated sense of justice.
However, her resolve is tested when her own mother is imprisoned for alleged religious crimes. Confronted with an agonising dilemma, Frances must choose between adhering to the harsh dictates of the new laws or risking everything to liberate those she holds dear.
Despite the constraints of her time, Frances’ ability to read and write is portrayed as both a personal triumph and a significant deviation from societal expectations. Her education, particularly her progressive view of teaching common children to read and write, highlights the transformative power of knowledge and the benefits of being born into the upper class.
The book’s rich language and detailed descriptions create a setting where the moral discussions of the time come alive. Frances’ frequent Shakespearean quotations underscore her struggle to maintain her values amid the religious and social drama that characterises her world. The novel also touches on the impact of art on daily life, illustrating how literature and theatre influence personal choices and moral frameworks.
In the Margins may not be a tale of high-stakes drama or thrilling escapades; instead, it unfolds with a focus on the subtleties of daily life. The novel’s deliberate pace and emphasis on the inner lives of the characters mean that it lacks the traditional markers of action, such as dramatic confrontations or adventurous plot twists. This restrained approach allows the novel to delve deeply into its themes, but may leave readers seeking more dynamic developments feeling somewhat disengaged.
Yet although the story may lack high drama, focusing instead on the simplicity of village life, it’s an ideal read for those who enjoy curling up by the fire with a cup of tea. The moral and social discussions add depth to the narrative, making it a wholesome and thought-provoking experience. Frances’ outspoken nature and her critique of the restrictive roles imposed on women – highlighted by her lament “I hate the way this life seems to suffocate women instead of helping them” – brings a progressive perspective to the era’s very traditional views.
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Ultimately, In the Margins delivers a satisfying and wholesome ending, reflecting the continuity of life and the enduring nature of personal and moral growth. It stands as a thoughtful and introspective exploration of 17th century English life, where the richness of language and the depth of character replace the conventional markers of action. The novel’s enduring message about the courage to defy oppressive norms and the value of intellectual and moral integrity offers a compelling and fulfilling read.
In the Margins, Gail Holmes
Publisher: Ultimo Press
ISBN: 9781761153112
Format: Paperback
Pages:324pp
Publication date: 3 September 2024
RRP: $34.99
