Through Gale's descriptions, Harry observes the rawness of the land, which in its untamed state is still picturesque. Gale also uses these skills in his depiction of the novel's landscape an area of Canada which, at the time, was still harsh and wild and mostly untouched. This is exactly the type of creativity and artistry that puts me in awe of Gale's writing. Gale develops Harry's character and his growth with such agility, combined with the natural tension of Harry slowly learning to accept who he really is. In fact, Harry only takes an active part in his own life when he finally gives himself to another person fully (his male lover), which leads to his decision to exile himself from England. And then later, when Harry is with his wife and daughter, he continues to be a loner, playing at being part of their world, while remaining the outsider. This inner will, as well as his solid sense of self, echo Gale's depiction of Harry's childhood years as being mostly solitary, yet he was respected enough to avoid being bullied. Harry's inner strength helps him withstand the physical difficulties, and through this sheer willpower and determination to succeed, his body eventually complies with his demands. This intimacy is particularly apparent in how gently Gale portrays Harry, who isn't a large or very physical man, which is unusual for a farmer. In A Place Called Winter, Gale has deepened his character development skills, probably because Harry Cane was a real person he was Gale's great-grandfather. Even Gale's minor characters get the same kind of attention. Equally as important is how they are scarcely ever predictable, and this keeps our attention while heightening our anticipation of what will happen next.
They are realistic, honest, but also flawed, and act foolishly just as easily as they act responsibly.
He creates a level of intimacy with his characters, which practically begs readers to embrace them with both their hearts and minds. What transpires between these events includes his brother-in-law's discovery of Harry's affair with another man, which forces him to leave his wife and daughter, and find a new life as a farmer in Winter, in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan – hence the title of the book.įans of Gale's work will already be familiar with his tender writing style. This is when author Patrick Gale returns us to Harry's younger days in early 20th century England, soon after his father's death. Thankfully, Harry's removal from this place brings him to another facility, with more humane treatments. When we first meet Harry Cane, he's in an institution, somewhere in Canada, where attendants are forcing him into a bath to calm him - a treatment for some kind of mental problem. Loosely based on a real life family mystery, Patrick Gale has created a novel of self-discovery, sexuality, secrets and, ultimately, of great love.
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