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Margaret Fairless BarberEnglish Christian writer
Date of Birth: 07.05.1869
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Early Life
- Family Loss and Health Struggles
- Writing Under a Pseudonym
- Literary Success
- Final Days and Legacy
- Literary Works
- - Gathering of Brother Hilarius:A collection of mystical writings.
Early Life
Margaret Barber was born in Rastrick, West Yorkshire, England, as the youngest of three daughters. Her love for reading began early on, and she received her initial education at home under the guidance of her mother, Mary Louisa, and elder sisters.
Family Loss and Health Struggles
In 1881, Barber's father passed away, leaving her mother overwhelmed with the care of three daughters. Margaret was sent to live with relatives in Torquay, Devon, where she attended a local school. It was during this time that she developed severe back pain that plagued her for the rest of her life.
Writing Under a Pseudonym
Barber's health continued to deteriorate, and she became bedridden. Unable to engage in her previous charitable work, she turned to writing under the pseudonym "Michael Fairless." The name "Michael" was chosen in honor of her childhood friend, Michael McDonnell (1882-1956), who later became Chief Justice of the British Mandate of Palestine.
Literary Success
Barber's first novel, "The Cathedral Church of St. Hilary," was published in 1901. However, it was her second book, "The Roadmender," that brought her widespread recognition and was reprinted 31 times within a decade.
Final Days and Legacy
In her later years, Barber's pain became unbearable, and she refused food for nine days, leading to her death in Hamfield, West Sussex. She was buried in Ashurst, West Sussex.
Literary Works
Under the pseudonym Michael Fairless, Margaret Barber published three books:
- The Cathedral Church of St. Hilary:A spiritual novel exploring the selflessness and sacrifices made by monastic figures amidst adversity.
- The Roadmender:A collection of stories and poems that reflects on various themes of life.
