Manylion a Disgrifiad y Llyfr | Book Details & Description
- ISBN: 9780863819476
- Author: Tom Davies
- Publication January 2005
- Format: Paperback, 210x150 mm, 320 pages
A new edition of a powerful novel set in the Gower area during the spiritual and socialist awakenings of 1904-05, as a young man and woman struggle to resolve their love for each other against many odds. First published in 1985 under the title One Winter of the Holy Spirit.
Gwales Review
This intense novel, re-released in the 'Best of Welsh' series, is a compelling story of politics, religion and the tragedy of a love that tears itself apart. Secular divisions destroy a relationship built on absolute desire. Following 'the Revival' as it sweeps through a disparate Wales – spattered with violence, rugby and a myriad of characters clinging onto alcohol, religion or whatever they can find – our protagonist, the sweet yet troubled Beth, is torn between God and a rather charming cockle picker named Michael. Enlisted as one of the angelic choir of Evan Roberts, the edgy and committed public preacher from Loughor, she embarks on a whirlwind tour of the South Wales valleys singing heavenly praises, but often plagued by longing for her young lover.
Davies’s book is an excellent view of the 1904 religious revival that swept across Wales and a gritty, yet tragic tale in its own right. But what really enflames the text is the vivid portrayal of the many characters that made up early 20th Century Welsh society. From the mad old crone, convinced that the slugs are keeping her up all night with their constant dancing on her porch, to Michael’s petulant yet loveable horse who sulks when he is banned from snuggling by the fireside, the subtle humour and gritty realism make for a 'total' literary experience. One can almost taste the salty seaside, smell the musty atmosphere of the local tavern and see the frenzied rugby matches with their bloody, violent undertones.
Although one may occasionally become bogged down with the internal struggles of Beth and the slightly repetitive nature of the religious services, this really is a great read. Beautifully portraying Wales and all its cultural heritage and not short of a twist or two, if you are at all interested in the Welsh Revival, this is an absolute must!
Jack Clothier