A Poet's Journey Through Communism and Identity
Sinéad Morrissey's memoir, Among Communists, offers a captivating glimpse into her unique upbringing in Belfast during the Troubles. But it's more than just a personal narrative; it's a reflection on the power of ideas, the allure of communism, and the complexities of identity in a divided society.
The Communist Family
Morrissey's childhood was anything but ordinary. Her parents, Mike and Hazel, were committed communists, and their home was a haven for radical thoughts and laughter. The family's life revolved around the Communist Party, with Saturday mornings spent at meetings, protests, or listening to rousing speeches in smoky rooms. This upbringing, while unconventional, was a source of pride for Morrissey, who felt 'at home' in this environment.
What's fascinating is how the family's ideology shaped their daily lives. From vegetarian feasts inspired by global cuisines to the naming of their cat and car after the family name, everything was a reflection of their beliefs. This level of commitment to an ideology is rare, and it's no wonder that Morrissey felt a deep sense of belonging within this eccentric world.
A Double Life
However, Morrissey's life was a delicate balance between two worlds. At school, she attended state-run, predominantly Protestant institutions, where her peers and their parents were staunch Unionists. This contrast between her home and school life required a constant 'code-switching', a skill she mastered at a young age.
This dual existence is a testament to the complexity of identity in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. Morrissey's struggle to explain her atheist, non-sectarian identity to her classmates highlights the societal pressure to fit into one of the prevailing categories. It's a powerful reminder of how political and religious affiliations can shape personal narratives, often in ways that are beyond individual control.
The Allure of Communism
Morrissey's attraction to communism is intriguing. She oscillated between believing in the ideology and questioning it, a sentiment many can relate to when it comes to political ideologies. The allure of a utopian society, where wealth is shared equally and systemic inequalities are eradicated, is a powerful dream.
The memoir vividly captures the appeal of communism, especially through the eyes of a young girl. The handsome Soviet man speaking with a Russian twang, the idea of a workers' revolution, and the promise of a utopian East Germany all contributed to a captivating narrative. This is a powerful reminder of how ideologies can capture the imagination, especially when presented as a solution to societal ills.
The Fall of an Ideology
The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked a turning point in Morrissey's life. As the Soviet Union collapsed, so did her parents' marriage and, with it, her mother's faith in the communist dream. This shift in her mother's beliefs, from a staunch Marxist to a New Age spiritualist, is a poignant moment in the memoir.
This change highlights the fragility of ideologies and the personal toll they can take. When an ideology becomes the 'glue' holding a family together, its disintegration can have profound consequences. Morrissey's grief at this loss is palpable, and it's a powerful commentary on the human cost of ideological shifts.
A Journey to the Middle
Intriguingly, Morrissey's own political journey has led her to 'the middle'. This is a significant evolution for someone raised on the fringes. Her current attraction to Labour or Green politics, and her passion for the climate crisis, reflect a nuanced understanding of the world.
What I find particularly insightful is her critique of Western Communism. She acknowledges its progressive and valuable aspects, especially in the context of Northern Ireland at the time. However, she also highlights the ethical dilemma of being tied to a 'rotten system'. This is a mature and thoughtful perspective, one that many who have experienced ideological shifts can relate to.
Honoring a Complex Childhood
Among Communists is not just a memoir; it's a tribute to Morrissey's rich and idiosyncratic childhood. Despite its challenges, she cherishes the experiences and ideas she was exposed to. The book is a celebration of her family's culture, their love for literature, poetry, and the arts, and the impact these had on her development as a poet.
This memoir is a powerful reminder that personal narratives are often shaped by the ideas we embrace and the communities we belong to. Morrissey's journey through communism and her unique upbringing in Belfast offer a fascinating perspective on identity, ideology, and the human capacity for change.
