The mermaid: A love tale unfolds along the rugged north-west coast of Prince Edward's Island, where the quiet rhythms of rural life are shadowed by hardship and emotional unrest. The narrative follows a sensitive youth shaped by a strict upbringing, whose moral values deepen after a harrowing experience with a local family's tragedy. Drawn into the quiet sorrows of those around him, he is confronted by an unsettling event during a fishing trip, where an austere farm and its troubled inhabitants leave a lasting mark on his conscience. As the consequences of a desperate act ripple through the community, he is compelled to confront themes of compassion, human fragility, and the moral complexities woven into everyday encounters. The figure of the mermaid, emerging later in the tale, becomes an emblem of longing, beauty, and the tension between dreams and reality. Through intertwined elements of romance, loss, and self-exploration, the story reflects both the pain and wonder found in human connection, set against an evocative maritime backdrop.
L. Dougall (1858–1923) was a Canadian writer and feminist known for her thought-provoking novels that explore themes of love, identity, and societal norms. Her debut novel, Beggars All, was published in 1892, establishing her as a significant voice in Canadian literature. Notable works include What Necessity Knows (1893), The Zeit-Geist (1895), The Mermaid (1895), A Dozen Ways of Love (1897), The Mormon Prophet (1899), and The Summit House Mystery (1905). Dougall's writing often addressed women's issues and challenged contemporary gender roles, reflecting her commitment to feminist ideals. In addition to her novels, she contributed essays and articles to various publications, advocating for women's rights and social reform. Dougall's literary legacy continues to resonate, offering insights into the complexities of love and societal expectations. Her works remain relevant, inviting readers to consider the evolving roles of women in society. Dougall's influence is acknowledged in discussions of early Canadian feminist literature.