Written by Lindsey Harrington, a Nova Scotian with ties to Newfoundland, this First Person column delves into a unique experience at Trapper John’s bar in St. John’s. To explore more of CBC’s First Person narratives, refer to the FAQ.
A frozen fish, resembling a question mark, is flung through the air towards Dan’s face at Trapper John’s, a dimly lit bar adorned with taxidermy in St. John’s.
In an exaggerated accent, the caricature brandishing the freezer-burnt fish queries, “Are you a Newfoundlander?” Despite the potential offensiveness of the term “Newfie,” it seems fitting in this scenario.
“Indeed I am!” Dan responds, planting a kiss on the cod as the crowd cheers and claps in amusement.
Noted mentally, I decide to hold off on any kisses until Dan freshens up, I muse to myself.
Dan is then ceremoniously “knighted” with an oar while kneeling on the beer-stained floor.
“I hereby declare you an honorary Newfoundlander. May your sails catch the wind for a long time.” Another round of cheers erupts in the cozy venue, including my own.
This trip marks my initial visit to Newfoundland with my partner, Dan, after relocating to Nova Scotia and meeting him. Like many before me, I left the island in pursuit of work and love due to the limited opportunities on the rock.
Following the Screech-in ceremony, my old high school friends lead us to a renowned pub for dinner, known for its exceptional fish and chips.
“I’ll opt for the veggie burger and salad, and just a heads-up to the kitchen, I have a severe fish and seafood allergy,” I inform the waiter, closing my plastic-coated menu in anticipation of the ensuing discussion.
This allergy, a lifelong challenge, triggers rashes and swelling if fish is nearby. Ingesting it poses severe risks, with past episodes leading me to the emergency room. The irony of being a Newfoundlander allergic to fish is a recurring theme in my life.
“We’ll do our best, but we can’t make guarantees…”
“I understand,” I respond curtly.
The familiar disclaimer, tainted by repetition, stings every time, akin to rubbing salt on a wound. The incongruity of a fish-allergic Newfoundlander elicits surprise from others, casting me as an enigma in a culture deeply intertwined with seafood traditions.
Fishing has historically defined Newfoundland, from sustaining indigenous populations to attracting European settlers. Despite shifts like the cod moratorium, fishing remains integral to the province’s identity and daily life.
My fish allergy was discovered in infancy, shielding me from seafood-centric gatherings. Despite growing up surrounded by seafood feasts, I was relegated to the sidelines, yearning to partake in the culinary customs I was excluded from.
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