The Headscarf Revolutionaries
by Brian Lavery.
Many people approached this book with trepidation, not expecting to enjoy it as much as they did.
It was however judged to be a “rollicking good read.”
Lavery’s evocative descriptions, particularly when describing the sinking of the boat reduced many to tears.
He depicts life, both on and off shore with vivid intensity, bringing alive the characters and the times.
The characters, with all their faults, are depicted with sympathy.
The trawler men had a very hard life.
No wonder they behaved like “3 day millionaires” when ashore.
Life was fleeting and fragile.
With little control over their fate, a complex system of superstitions evolved around the Dock.
It was a very close knit community that supported each other in time of need, but was equally capable of turning against those who were deemed to have broken the code, irrevocably and painfully.
This was the fate of Lily Bilocca.
Supported by the other headscarf revolutionaries in an attempt to improve the conditions at sea, eventually, some of the tide of public opinion turned against her.
She was condemned for breaking the rules concerning women on the Dock and for her outspoken comment on ITV.
The press did her no favours misconstruing an innocent remark in order to make a sensational headline.
The role of the press features heavily in the book.
The fishing community viewed the Hull Daily Mail as their friend.
A tactful ally in times of stress.
This contrasts heavily with the media mêlée surrounding Harry Eddom and Lily Bilocca.
Harry Eddom was another tragic figure.
Originally hailed as a hero, some turned against him, feeling that he should have done something to save his fellow ship mate.
To have done anything would have condemned them all to death.
A powerful, strong book depicting the hard life and times of the men and women of the fishing community in Hull.
4stars, JC, 18th January
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