‘I remember [the stairs] because they were dark and difficult. There was something about the stairs that made you pause half-way and call: “Mother?”
If she answered “Yes” or “What is it?” you said “Oh,” and continued reassured, either up or down. But if she did not answer, you called again, urgently: “Mother!”
And if she still did not answer, you were sure the world had suddenly emptied, that you were left alone in a desolate place, and you scrambled backwards wildly, making for the kitchen.’
This extract comes from early on in Dorothy Whipple’s endearing childhood memoir The Other Day. Born in 1893, Dorothy grew up in the mill town of Blackburn, Lancashire, in a large, cheerful, middle-class family, with affectionate parents, friends to play with, her adored maternal grandmother near enough for dropping in, and a full complement of high-spirited young uncles and aunts either still living at home, or newly married and visiting.
On the surface The Other Day is the account of an idyllic childhood. Dorothy Whipple’s genius is not only to bring this small world vividly alive but also to show the gulf of perception that exists between children and the adults who look after them, however kindly.
As Mothering Sunday approaches in the UK and Ireland on March 15, we thought some of you may appreciate a few gift ideas for the maternal figures in your lives. Please scroll on to view our recommendations.
With best wishes, as ever, from the SF staff
Isabel, Rebecca, Edie, Ruth & Jennie
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