The Wood at Midwinter

“Saints are difficult people to live with.”

This statement, spoken by Ysolde, reflects the tension between societal norms and Merowdis’s otherworldly nature. On the surface, it excuses their father’s impatience with Merowdis’s unconventional behavior, but it also acknowledges the challenge of understanding her saintly qualities. The quote juxtaposes the admiration for Merowdis’s visions and her care for animals with the difficulty of coexisting with someone who transcends human concerns. It hints at the broader concept of sainthood as an isolating burden.

“A woman alone was in danger from all sorts of predatory creatures—bears, wolves, men. Yet walking in the wood was the only thing that interested Merowdis.”

This passage highlights the dual imagery of the wood as both a place of danger and sanctuary. While society frames the woods as perilous for women, Merowdis finds solace and fulfillment there. The line underscores her rejection of societal constraints in favor of communion with nature. The mention of “men” among the predators subtly critiques patriarchal assumptions about safety and agency, while also establishing Merowdis’s defiance in pursuing her own path.

“(If you ever get a chance to learn what is written in spider webs, take it. Spiders have been writing since the world began and know many interesting things.)”

This whimsical aside bridges the mundane and mystical, emphasizing the wood’s sentience and interconnectedness. The parenthetical tone suggests a timeless, universal wisdom embedded in nature, accessible to those like Merowdis who are attuned to it. The quote reflects the idea of hidden knowledge and the blending of natural and supernatural elements, positioning