The Last Woman Born on the Island

Exploring themes of language and belonging, The Last Woman Born on the Island offers a poignant reflection on Scottish culture and identity.

In The Last Woman Born on the Island, the author embarks on a profound journey that intertwines the past and present, exploring the rich landscapes—both physical and emotional—that shape our lives. The collection delves into the colors of the languages we speak, reflecting on how these languages influence our existence. Much of the poetry is rooted in the author’s homeland of Scotland, offering a vivid portrayal of its beauty and complexity.

The poems serve as a contemplative lens on the history and traditions of the Highlands and Islands. From the tragic HMS Iolaire disaster in 1919 to the intricate art of knitting Eriskay ganseys, the collection weaves together narratives that resonate deeply with Scottish heritage. The author also touches on folklore, such as the legend of the White Cow at Callanish stone circle, and the experiences of herring girls in the early twentieth century, creating a tapestry of cultural memory.

Questions of loss, memory, and belonging permeate the work. The author ponders the distinction between something lost and something forgotten, inviting readers to explore what it means to belong to a place—or even to two places. In one evocative poem, she stands at the intersection of her home country and her adopted France, allowing her feet to narrate their journey through these landscapes. Who is the last woman, and where is the island? The answers lie within the verses of this reflective collection.