Margaret Laurence, 1926-1987

We Canadians are justifiably proud of our rich literary tradition, built as it is by great writers whose work is enjoyed throughout the world. This year, which happens to be both the bicentennial of the birth of Thomas Haliburton and the centennial of the birth of Félix-Antoine Savard, Canada Post launches a set of domestic-rate stamps to honour five of our most celebrated authors. Each of the five writers is well-known and well-loved for telling stories which have inspired us, moved us and changed us. They represent a rich contrast in Canadian voices, and yet they share an honest insight into day-to-day life that has become a central focus in Canadian literature. They also share striking originality, and the talent and courage to tell different stories different ways. "Above the town, on the hill brow, the stone angel used to stand. Summer and winter she viewed the town with sightless eyes. She was doubly blind, not only stone but unendowed with even a pretense of sight." So begins Margaret Laurence's best known novel, The Stone Angel. Clara Thomas, biographer and critic, called The Stone Angel "a landmark event for Canadian literature and the keystone of Laurence's career." Born in Neepawa, Manitoba in 1926, Margaret Laurence is perhaps best remembered for her unparalleled portrayal of female characters struggling for self-understanding and personal fulfillment. Laurence was awarded the Governor General's Award in 1966 and again in 1974. An early feminist voice, she is considered to have been a major force in the Canadian literary renaissance of the 1960's. In choosing a designer for this important tribute to Canadian writers, Canada Post was delighted to turn once again to Alain Leduc of Montreal, whose previous work includes the "Canada Day Group of Seven" set, (1995) and "La Francophonie" (1995). As readers can see from the images on these pages, each stamp bears a subtle computer enhanced portrait of the author based on an actual photograph. Engraved over each portrait is the opening sentence of a major work, while underneath each is a translation in smaller type. This series of five writers is a welcome addition to the Canadian tradition of honouring its best. Moreover, the international stature of the authors featured in the series is sure to attract the interest of collectors at home and around the world.