Picture a Canadian storyteller who turned small-town prairie life into literary gold—meet Margaret Laurence! Born in 1926 in Neepawa, Manitoba, she wove tales of resilience and humanity that resonate worldwide. Her celebrated Manawaka Sequence, including The Stone Angel and The Diviners, captures the heart of Canada’s heartland with unflinching honesty and warmth.
Laurence’s stories aren’t just books—they’re windows into the human spirit, blending grit and grace. Let’s dive into her life, her unforgettable works, and why she remains a literary icon.
The Making of Margaret Laurence
Margaret Laurence, born Jean Margaret Wemyss, grew up in Neepawa, a small Manitoba town that later inspired her fictional Manawaka. Losing both parents by age nine, she was raised by her grandfather and aunt, whose storytelling sparked her love for words. After studying English at United College in Winnipeg, she worked as a journalist, honing her keen eye for detail.
Her early career took her to Somalia and Ghana with her husband, Jack Laurence, where she translated Somali poetry and wrote travel memoirs. These experiences shaped her global perspective, but it was Canada’s prairies that called her home, inspiring her to craft stories rooted in her roots.
Margaret Laurence’s Unforgettable Stories
Laurence’s Manawaka Sequence, a series of five novels and short stories, is her crowning achievement. Set in the fictional town of Manawaka, these works explore themes of identity, freedom, and the weight of tradition. The Stone Angel (1964) introduces Hagar Shipley, a stubborn 90-year-old reflecting on her tumultuous life. Its raw portrayal of aging and regret earned critical acclaim.
A Jest of God (1966) follows Rachel Cameron, a repressed schoolteacher yearning for connection, while The Diviners (1974), Laurence’s final novel, traces Morag Gunn’s journey as a writer grappling with her past. Her lyrical yet accessible style, rich with vivid characters and prairie landscapes, makes each story feel intimate and universal.
Laurence also wrote children’s books, like Jason’s Quest, and essays advocating for social justice, reflecting her commitment to empathy and change. Her ability to blend personal struggles with broader societal issues set her apart as a literary trailblazer.
Why Margaret Laurence Matters
Margaret Laurence’s work reshaped Canadian literature, giving voice to women’s experiences and rural life at a time when urban narratives dominated. Her Manawaka Sequence earned her two Governor General’s Awards and a place in Canada’s literary canon. Beyond awards, her stories continue to inspire readers to confront their own histories with courage.
Laurence’s legacy endures through adaptations, like the film version of The Stone Angel, and her influence on writers like Margaret Atwood. Her death in 1987 at age 60 was a loss, but her words remain timeless, urging us to find meaning in the everyday.
About Margaret Laurence
- Born: July 18, 1926, Neepawa, Manitoba
- Key Works: The Stone Angel, The Diviners, A Jest of God
- Awards: Two Governor General’s Awards (1966, 1974)
- Died: January 5, 1987
Snag The Stone Angel and dive into Margaret Laurence’s soul-stirring world of prairie tales!