In this personal account penned by Lindsey Harrington, a Nova Scotian with ties to Newfoundland, the scene unfolds at Trapper John’s, a dimly lit bar adorned with taxidermy in St. John’s. A frozen fish, contorted like a question mark, is propelled through the air towards Dan’s face. The individual wielding the freezer-burnt fish, embodying a stereotypical Newfoundlander persona, questions Dan’s Newfoundland heritage in a boisterous accent, leading to a playful interaction where Dan plants a kiss on the fish, eliciting cheers from onlookers.
As I observe this amusing spectacle, I make a mental note to refrain from close contact with Dan until he freshens up. Dan, amidst the revelry, kneels on the beer-stained floor and is ceremoniously “knighted” with an oar, declared an honorary Newfoundlander to the delight of the gathered crowd.
Accompanied by my boyfriend Dan, I embark on my maiden voyage to Newfoundland since relocating to Nova Scotia and meeting him. Like many before me, I departed the island in pursuit of employment and companionship, recognizing the challenges presented by the limited job market and dating pool in Newfoundland.
Following the Screech-in ceremony, a tradition in Newfoundland, my old high school buddies bring us to a local pub known for its delectable fish and chips. Despite my severe seafood allergy, I notify the waiter of my dietary restrictions, opting for a veggie burger and salad to avoid any potential reactions.
My lifelong allergy to fish, which triggers severe physical reactions, has been a constant obstacle. The mere presence of fish in the air can induce rashes and swelling, with ingestion posing life-threatening risks. The realization of my allergy often sparks incredulity, given the integral role of fish in Newfoundland’s culture and culinary heritage.
Since childhood, fish has been an elusive delicacy for me, tantalizingly out of reach. Traditional Newfoundland dishes like fish and brewis remain unattainable pleasures, depriving me of the opportunity to partake in discussions about the superiority of various seafood options. Despite my deep connection to fishing activities during my upbringing on the Burin Peninsula, the inability to consume seafood continues to gnaw at me.
In contrast to Newfoundland’s profound reliance on fish, Nova Scotia’s culinary landscape, with its diverse offerings, provides a sense of security regarding my allergy. Walking back from the Screech-in amidst the vibrant St. John’s scenery, I contemplate the contrasting perceptions of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, pondering if my exposure to the mainland has softened my resilience.
Engaging in light-hearted banter with Dan, a proud Nova Scotian, I reflect on my dual identity as both a Newfoundlander and a bluenoser, embracing the unique cultural nuances of each region. Despite the culinary restrictions imposed by my allergy, I find solace in the shared experiences and traditions that bind me to both Newfoundland and Nova Scotia.
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