John MacLeod's tribute at sea: Mourning Martin's granite memorial
- The author prepares his father's grave in rural Lewis, Scotland, following local customs.
- He recalls a fishing trip with his father in 1978, emphasizing their bond and shared memories.
- The narrative reflects on the enduring connection to loved ones and the impact of loss.
In rural Lewis, Scotland, a man reflects on the emotional experience of mourning as he prepares a grave for his father. The grave was filled before the mourners left, a local custom that adds to the pain of loss. The author describes the grave as a raw, raised mound that evokes a strong compulsion to visit, despite the sorrow it represents. He recalls a fishing trip with his father in 1978, highlighting the bond they shared and the memories tied to the landscape. The narrative also touches on the history of the area, including the nearby lighthouse, which was built in 1862 and only electrified in 1976. The author’s journey to the grave site is marked by reflections on family, loss, and the passage of time, culminating in a poignant reminder of the enduring connection to loved ones, even in death.