Donna Morrissey and her four siblings were reminiscing one evening when she had a profound realization. In their upbringing in Newfoundland, Morrissey and her sisters spent much time indoors with their mother, while her brothers engaged in outdoor activities with their father. This pattern persisted into adulthood, leading to a discovery of unknown facets of their late father as her brothers shared stories about him.
From this revelatory night, Morrissey’s latest book emerged, titled “Tell It to the Water: Five Siblings Tell of Their Father’s Grief and His Struggle Back to Hope.” While the narrative primarily focuses on their father’s grieving process following their mother’s cancer-related passing, it also delves into other tragic events, such as the loss of Morrissey’s brother, Ford, in a workplace accident four decades ago.
Reflecting on this experience, Morrissey, who divides her time between Halifax and Newfoundland, expressed the emotional intensity of hearing her siblings’ untold stories, which evoked deep pain. As an accomplished author of fictional works, she found writing this memoir to be a raw and vulnerable process, unlike her usual detached approach to character emotions.
The book is structured with chapters narrated from the viewpoints of Morrissey and her siblings, highlighting each perspective. Bringing these stories to print involved extensive discussions and probing questions among the siblings to clarify intentions behind certain passages and emotions during pivotal moments.
Despite occasional tensions arising during these conversations, Morrissey emphasized the profound bond that exists among the siblings, which has only strengthened through the book’s creation. She acknowledged that the shared tragedies in their family’s history have brought them closer together, fostering a deeper appreciation for each other.
Dr. Simon Sherry, a psychologist at Crux Psychology in Halifax, provided insights into the psychology of grief, noting that individuals can maintain a dynamic relationship with deceased loved ones. He emphasized the enduring emotional connections that persist even after the loss, shaping ongoing attachment and reminiscence.
Morrissey aspires for her book to encourage readers to reflect on their own family dynamics and inspire those wanting to document their family history. She highlighted how time has allowed her and her siblings to confront the adversities they faced collectively, fostering a heightened sense of unity and mutual support as they navigate life’s challenges together.