Dark, Salt, Clear: Life in a Cornish Fishing Town

I heard this book read by the author on Radio Four and was really taken by the description and experiences captured in this work of non-fiction. Named after one of the small coves near Penzance in Cornwall, this is Lamorna's first book and is an enthralling description of those involved in what remains of the fishing industry in the Cornish fishing town of Newlyn. Lamorna experiences first hand, life and work on a variety of the boats that use different fishing techniques to earn a living from the sea. This is more than a passive observation, as Lamorna mucks in with the crews by helping with the killing and gutting of the fish, often working nights on the boats and fish market. She was about 23 when she gathered her material, through her eyes and reactions we experience the work and lifestyle of those involved. We see life as lived by the residents and workers of Newlyn, including how the fishermen relax when ashore, and how they are driven to return to the sea as quickly as possible. Through the descriptions and interviews with the captains and key members of the crew on the boats, we learn about the life and aspirations of those left in this shrinking industry. We also meet some of the older residents of the town and learn of its history and way of life in 'the old days'. The style of the book is very lyrical but realistic, and at times frightening. It is laced with observations and comments from other authors on the British fishing industry and its history. However, this is not an academic book, but a tribute to those who work in the fishing industry in Cornwall, seen through the eyes of a young writer, and includes a lighter and humourous side as well as its darker elements. This is Lamorna Ash's first book and to say I was gobsmacked reading it, is an understatement. I wouldn't want to work on those boats, but I now have a very clear idea of what it would be like to spend days at sea in what can be, dangerous and exhausting work. This is an engaging book to highly recommend to you. I will be interested to see what this young author tackles next, whatever it is, I will read it!

Not so much of a story but physical witness of what real people the men (and women) of the sea, the fisherman, have to face on a daily basis. Historical anecdotes are cleverly interwoven and I came away is awe of these heroes and of the author whom participated as part of her research including days away in the rough Atlantic.

I couldn’t put down this evocative, intelligently-written book set in that most beautiful corner of the British Isles, Cornwall. Quality writing, sharp observations and the author’s self-effacing approach make this an exceptional read. I look forward to more from Lamorna Ash.

Considering the author of this beautifully written book is only in her early/mid-twenties, this is a very impressive debut and one I enjoyed from beginning to end. My mother’s family is from Cornwall and has lived there for generations and I spent many a summer and easter holiday beach combing, sailing, swimming and rock pooling at various beaches and coves all along the Cornish coast, but I’ve never gone out on a fishing trawler and thrown my lot in with professional fisherman as Lamorna Ash has done and has recounted to her readers in this attractively presented book all about her time living and working at Newlyn, a fishing town near Land’s End.And well done to Lamorna for not just being a passenger on the various boats she went out to sea on - she learnt to gut and fillet the fish caught and was even able to match the fisherman, practically drink for drink, in the local pubs when they were all safely back on dry land. On a more serious note, Ms Ash deftly portrays the difficult life of the Cornish fisherman whose livelihood is under threat and she also shares with the reader what it is that lures some of us to the sea and what it is that fetters us to the land. With some superb evocations of situation and setting (some of her descriptions of the natural world around her demand more than one reading and my copy of this book is marked with post-its so that I can return to these when the feeling takes me) this part history of Cornwall’s fishing communities and part coming-of-age story is one I would certainly recommend.5 Stars.

I know the area and many of the people so found this evocative. However once you read the factual errors (pitch, roll) and know the slight geographical liberties taken you begin to doubt the veracity of the anecdotes. The numerous references to other writers was unnecessary and seems like a need to impress a tutor; detracting from the author's own excellent use of language.

Quite simply, the best non-fiction book I've read for ages. It's always honest, but never in-yer-face! The contrasts between life on board ship and life ashore ring true (even to a landlubber) and each detail feels in place for a purpose. It's down to earth, but unafraid of emotions. So yes, I liked it and would recommend it both as a grand read and as a factual account.

Good quality. Would buy again.

I have sat in the Newlyn School of Art to paint on a holiday course so I can speak to the accuracy of this description of a small Cornish town deeply rooted in the sea. Beautifully written without sentimentality but with an obvious love for the place and the people.

Lamorna Ash makes it easy for us to join in on her fishing boat adventures, discovering the town and it's history, and fascinating historical and scientific facts that support the whole experience.Like a breath of a fresh sea breeze!

Best description of life in a small town, knit together by the sea I have read. It’s hard to describe what the sea means to people who are drawn to it and those who stay on land, but are as involved with the sea as the mariners are. This book finds the right words.

A great book even if you have never been there. I have been many many times and it is a beautiful reminder why .I already want to read it again. Even more importantly I ca t wait to get back to Newlyn.

A very enjoyable read. Ash appears to work hard at becoming engaged within the small town community and provides commentary which helps the reader become involved in her experiences. Particularly those on board various fishing vessels.

Just a beautiful book. Nothing more to say. Perfectly evocative of a place and time.