Gathering in: Covid-19 Silver Linings

The work of twenty-six Nova Scotia writers fill the pages of Gathering In (8 with full-colour images by N.S. South Shore artists Jennie McGuire and Beverley McInnes of Chester). The cover is a composite of the work of both artists represented in the interior. The book's pages are filled with short stories, art, memoirs, poetry, spoken-word poetry, and lyrics – all created during the lockdown from April 1 to July 15th 2020. Additionally the lyrics and spoken-word poetry have links to video performances of the text, to view or to read along. Gathering In: COVID-19 Silver Linings' content was inspired by creative insights, imaginings, practice and events during the COVID-19 lockdown between April 1 and July 15 2020, in Nova Scotia . Twenty-six contributors shared creative experiences during this difficult time when human liberty and freedom were curbed in favour of the greater good – to stop the spread of a deadly virus.

This book has 168 pages 6x9 with French flaps and includes an 8-page full-colour art insert. Gathering In: COVID-19 Silver Linings is timely, innovative, inspiring as well as interesting. There are links with three of the selections contained in the book, that when typed into a browser enable the reader  to view a video of the writers, poets and musicians performing their work as readers read along.

Though oppressive in many ways, COVID-19 also created moments of tremendous awareness and revealed insights that might have been overlooked under different circumstances. "The lockdown and fear of COVID-19 contact made us appreciate what we'd perhaps taken for granted. Made simple things complex and beautiful; stories of kindness became acts of heroism; and laughter and joy were savoured and felt acutely."

Stories shared on the telephone or texted, or viewed in other ways often offered us some of what we needed to fill the "connection" void surrounding us.

Social relationships became tender though innovation in connections other than face to face, prevailed. Nova Scotian's accepted and followed the political and medical leadership given to keep them safe, even as they reeled when things went terribly wrong, when lives were lost and we were helpless within their isolation. Bluenosers have prevailed and soared – and that's what Gathering In is all about.