The Red Door: Historical Context

The Red Door: Historical Context

General Background

  • Iain Crichton Smith was born in 1928 on the Isle of Lewis, an island located off the northwest coast of Scotland.
  • He grew up in a community that was traditionally-minded, often repressed and dominated by the severe Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland.
  • His upbringing was in an environment where the Gaelic language, accompanied by the strict church teachings, were incredibly influential.

The Isle of Lewis

  • This island is steeped in ancient history, with orbital stone circles and remnants of iron age settlements found all over.
  • During Smith’s lifespan, the Isle of Lewis underwent substantial change - from a predominantly fishing and crofting economy to one more driven by the service sector.
  • Geographically isolated, the lack of easy travel to the mainland and other islands could make day-to-day living feel stifling.

Societal and Historical Influence

  • The influence of the Free Presbyterian church was notable. Its strict, orthodox beliefs were prevalent in the island’s society.
  • Social change, such as the advent of technology, the swing of political power from the wealthy landowners to the working class, influenced day-to-day living.
  • The tension between modern lifestyle and traditional customs is evident in many of Smith’s stories, reflecting his views on this conflict.

Language

  • The Gaelic language was central to the island’s identity despite its waning use in daily life due to modernisation.
  • English was increasingly gaining prominence, creating a linguistic divide – a conflict that often plays out in Smith’s works.

Post-War Influence

  • Smith’s formative years were during World War II, experiencing life during wartime and its immediate aftermath.
  • The war changed the course of the 20th century, and its influence is seen in his focus on themes of freedom, trauma, and change.

Literary Influence

  • The island’s history of oral storytelling tradition, folklore, and myths are often referenced or form the backdrop of Smith’s stories.
  • Smith’s writing was also impacted by major Scottish literary figures of the time, particularly George Mackay Brown and Neil M. Gunn.
  • There’s also an influence of European existentialist literature, reflecting questions of existence, freedom, and purpose.

Modernisation and its Impact

  • The process of modernising disrupted traditional Gaelic society, with old norms being replaced by new ways slowly.
  • There was increasingly a shift from an agrarian, community-focused lifestyle to a more individualistic, modern one.
  • Smith’s writings explore this tension and upheaval, often with a sense of loss and alienation.