The Herring Man is an evocative Welsh tale, itself concerned with the oral storytelling tradition, by Saundersfoot writer Cyril James Morris. Its protagonist, Gwyn, is the grandson of the late Samuel Evans, fisherman and spinner of high-seas yarns. If fishing is reflexively thought of as a male activity, the scenarios outlined in The Herring Man can perhaps be considered in the context of mindful reminiscence: it happily evoked the fun and innocence of childhood memories, and that joyful nostalgia recalled by those youthful hobbies we often drift away from as we grow up.
A fine example of Welsh nature writing, The Herring Man is further embellished by beautiful hand-drawn, colour-filled sketches that graciously lead you by the hand through this personal story. We also encounter Coleridge quotes, and an engaging poem that sets the tone and rhythm of the book’s message and style.
At a mere 80 pages, divided into 13 chapters, you could devour this in one sitting: a short jaunt, should you so wish, towards a comfortable break from urban mundanity. A highly recommended piece of work, whose narrative lulls you towards its end but which anchors your very soul.
The Herring Man, Cyril James Morris (Parthian)
Price: £7.99. Info: here
words BILLIE INGRAM SOFOKLEOUS