Complex Issues And Themes In Frances Harrison's Lady Of Nature

The short narrative Lady of Nature explores the complex issues and themes present in Canadian literature. The specific issues that were given focus include: the environment as a dominant force in North American literature, the relationship between identity and the environment, surviving but not thriving in the Canadian north, the gulf between man and woman and the concept of death and dying.

The environment is a great cliché in Canadian literature, often serving as a fundamental motif. It is not only limited to the physical setting but extends deeper, serving a metaphorical role and giving insight into the social and mental mindsets of characters and society. This is often exhibited through the theme of romanticised isolation, which is no doubt a consequence of the post-romantic trend to focus on the sublime and picturesque. This theme explored in the text Idyll of the Island by Susie Frances Harrison, where a man is seemingly bewitched by his surroundings;
“But the cool northern isle, with its dark fringe of pines; its wonderful moss, its fragrant and dewy ferns, its graceful sumachs, just putting on their

However due to the physical, social and emotionally isolated nature of the setting, it can be deduced that the character has indeed romanticised the events. The theme of romanticised isolation, and nature as the dominant and driving force, served as key concepts for the creative response. The title itself is symbolic, denoting that the protagonist is a part of nature; it is inextricably bound to her identity. This is a stark contrast to her attitude in the beginning of the novel in which her hatred for nature becomes obvious. The power of nature transforms her into a tree, and she becomes socially and mentally isolated. However as the narrative progresses her outlook changes. She begins to accept her state, and develops empathy for nature, which inevitably drives her to romanticise about