Book of the Week

Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson
Recommended by Thomas Hallé

 Winterson’s critically acclaimed novel can be rightly classified as a classic and a cornerstone of English literature; the continuously topical themes discussed in Oranges, ones of parental power dynamics and our own character development as we age and begin to define ourselves not solely as an extension of our parents, as well as the turbulent relationship between homosexuality and religion relevant in modern society, are wonderfully packaged in a largely accessible and thought provoking manner, in what is a blend of fiction and Winterson’s personal experience. 

The novel is set in a 1960’s  Northern town, and follows the journey of young Jeanette from her unorthodox, religiously centred upbringing to her eventual departure from her mother and the confines of the environment she used to call home. A major theme explored throughout the novel is the mother-daughter dynamic, whereby primarily we see Jeanette’s mother’s difficulty in demonstrating her love for her only child, and the ways in which she reacts to the uprooting of any preconceived plans she had for daughter (as a missionary) as Jeanette chooses a route that goes against the heteronormative status quo at the time. Although there is a feeling of tragedy as we see the decay of this central relationship, the novel discusses ideas of acceptance (to some extent) and a somewhat cyclical journey in terms of their relationship, whereby the two characters who in some regards are polar opposites, reach some form of  a middle ground and attempted compromise.

Another major theme that Winterson explores is one of teenage romance, and furthermore the absolute determination for the pursuit of love regardless of the rigid obstacles (in this case that of homophobia in society) that one may face. Jeanette is able to leave the confines that she was brought up in, that if she had chosen a path of submission would have provided a life of security and familiarity. However, her desire to overcome hardship and and follow her true identity as a lesbian is a prime example of the strength displayed by those restrained by societal norms, and in a sense gives a voice to many who historically have fought for the freedom of expression.

 

In conclusion, Winterson’s masterpiece is a must read whatever circumstances you find yourself in, offering an all-encompassing insight into themes significant both historically and more notably in the twenty-first century.