The Changing Voice of Writing

Last week Stu and I watched the movie Women Talking. We had a particular interest in the movie, as it was based on the book of the same name, written by Miriam Toews. Miriam Toews was born in Steinbach, Manitoba (Canada) a child of Mennonite parents. Stu grew up in Landmark, Manitoba, a 20 minute drive from Steinbach. His family were one of the few non-Mennonite families in town.

I had seen several of Miriam Toews books in McNally Robinson, my favourite bookshop in Winnipeg, when we were there last year. I intend to read her as soon as the to be read pile is under my control. The screenplay adaptation won an Academy Award for best writing this year (2023). The movie is harrowing. The subject matter, sexual assault, is extremely uncomfortable, yet the cinematography is simply beautiful, and the acting is sublime.

During the movie I came to realise these women had no voice. They were not allowed to be educated and they were under the control of their husbands, fathers, and brothers. They didn’t even know where in the world they were, having never seen a map. The story is based in fact, and mirrors reality. Although most women are not silenced to the degree these women were, there is a distinct lack of female voices throughout history. In art, in writing, in science, in recognition. This seems to be changing. I am seeing more and more representation of the voices of women everywhere I look. It’s empowering and hopeful.

I have recently read The Dictionary of Lost Words, by Pip Williams. An historical novel, based in fact, about the making of the first Oxford Dictionary. From several women’s perspectives. Women who were never acknowledge for their role in this creation. Pip Williams has another book releasing next week, called The Bookbinder of Jericho. Again, historical fiction, about the women who keep the Oxford University Press operational during WWI. The story of women’s experiences, being told by a woman.

I am currently reading Lessons in Chemistry, by Bonnie Garmus. Another historical fiction about a chemist, in the 1950s, who is a single mum, and really not taken seriously because of her gender. The stereotypical men in the book are cringeworthy. The obstacles women had to overcome, insurmountable.

When I am not reading or writing, I have been watching Daisy Jones and The Six. A television series based on the book of the same name by Taylor Jenkins Reid. It is loosely based on the story of Fleetwood Mac, and Daisy is a strong-willed, powerful female, written by a woman who writes strong women. The series is produced by Hello Sunshine, a production company founded by Reese Witherspoon. The company’s objective is “Changing the Narrative for Women…to shine a light on where women are now and help them chart a new path forward”. It aims to broaden perspective and empower women by giving them authorship, inspiring agency, and creating a platform to help them shape culture and the world around them.

I am really embracing hearing these voices and look forward to reading, hearing, and discovering many more. I am also feeling entitled to add my voice to the discussion.