Luisa Stömer’s tide & blood: An In-Depth Look at the Book’s Themes and Details

New Publication Challenges Taboos Surrounding The Female Cycle

Published September 4, 2025

A newly released eBook is sparking conversation by openly addressing the physiological and emotional experiences of the female menstrual cycle, offering a fresh viewpoint on a topic often shrouded in silence.

A Detailed Exploration of The Female Cycle

A comprehensive new work, released in April of 2017, delves into the intricacies of the female menstrual cycle with both scientific accuracy and artistic sensitivity. The publication, spanning 242 pages, aims to destigmatize discussions surrounding menstruation by embracing its natural processes and acknowledging its profound impact on overall health and wellbeing.

It moves beyond clinical descriptions to explore the emotional and physical dimensions of each phase, from ovulation to menstruation, framing the cycle not as an inconvenience but as an integral aspect of female vitality. The work highlights the “beauty of middle pain”, the normalcy of bodily functions, and the sophistication inherent in a woman’s reproductive system.

Visual Learning and Accessible Science

The book distinguishes itself through the pairing of detailed scientific explanations with striking illustrations. Complex biological processes are presented in an easily understandable manner, making the facts accessible to a broad audience, even those without a background in science. This approach is intended to empower readers with knowledge and promote body literacy.

The authors challenge conventional views that often characterize menstruation as a “grazing wound”, instead positioning it as “the cradle of life”-a powerful and deserving subject of thorough examination and respect. This reframing encourages a more positive and accepting attitude towards the female body and its natural functions.

Key Facts at a Glance

Attribute	Details
Title	ebb & blood
Format	eBook
Page Count	242
Publication Date	April 25, 2017

Did You Know? Approximately 800 million people menstruate globally each day, yet conversations regarding menstrual health remain stigmatized.

Pro Tip: Prioritizing self-care during yoru menstrual cycle – including adequate rest, hydration, and nutritious foods – can substantially impact your physical and emotional wellbeing.

This publication arrives at a time of growing awareness surrounding women’s health and reproductive rights. As society becomes increasingly open to discussing previously taboo topics, resources like this play an essential role in fostering understanding, empathy, and empowerment.

What aspects of the female cycle do you think are most often misunderstood? How can we create a more supportive and informed society regarding women’s health?

The Ongoing Conversation Around Menstrual Health

The increasing emphasis on menstrual health is part of a larger movement toward recognizing and addressing the systemic inequalities faced by people who menstruate. Access to menstrual products, education, and healthcare remains a challenge for many, particularly in underserved communities.

Recent studies indicate a growing demand for more comprehensive sex education that includes accurate and unbiased information about the menstrual cycle. This is seen as crucial for promoting body literacy, preventing misinformation, and reducing stigma. The World Health Institution recognizes menstrual health as a key indicator of overall health and wellbeing.

Learn more about menstrual health from the World Health Organization.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Menstrual Cycle

• What is the average length of a menstrual cycle? The average cycle lasts 28 days, but it can vary from 21 to 35 days.
• What causes menstrual cramps? Menstrual cramps are caused by contractions in the uterus.
• Is it normal to experience mood swings during your period? Yes, hormonal changes can contribute to mood swings.
• How can I manage heavy menstrual bleeding? Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
• What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)? PMS is a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days leading up to menstruation.

Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation!

How does the novel *tide & blood* utilize the blurring of reality and myth to explore the psychological impact of historical trauma on the inhabitants of São Miguel do Arcanjo?

The Core Narrative: A Fusion of History and Myth

Luisa Stömer’s tide & blood isn’t simply a historical novel; it’s a deeply layered exploration of identity, trauma, and the enduring power of folklore. The story centers around the fictional island of São Miguel do arcanjo, heavily inspired by the Azores, and the interconnected lives of its inhabitants across generations. Key to understanding the novel is recognizing its deliberate blurring of lines between reality and myth,notably concerning the marrachas – shapeshifting women believed to transform into seals.

historical Context: The narrative spans the 19th and 20th centuries, reflecting the socio-political changes impacting the Azores, including emigration, economic hardship, and the lingering effects of colonialism.

Mythological Roots: The marracha legend isn’t merely a backdrop; it’s integral to the characters’ experiences and the island’s collective consciousness. Stömer draws heavily on Azorean folklore, presenting it not as superstition, but as a powerful force shaping lives.

Generational Trauma: The novel meticulously traces how trauma – stemming from loss, societal pressures, and historical events – is passed down through families, manifesting in both psychological and physical ways.

Exploring the Marracha Legend: More Than Just Shapeshifting

The marracha figure is arguably the most compelling element of tide & blood. Stömer doesn’t offer a simplistic interpretation. Instead, she presents the transformation as a complex metaphor for female agency, societal constraints, and the yearning for freedom.

Symbolism of the Seal: The seal represents a connection to the wild, untamed aspects of nature and the feminine. It’s a symbol of escape from the rigid structures of patriarchal society.

Loss of Voice & Identity: the transformation frequently enough coincides with a loss of voice or a silencing of the marracha’s true self. This reflects the historical suppression of women’s voices and experiences.

The Price of Freedom: Becoming a marracha isn’t a purely liberating act. It comes with a price – isolation, a fractured sense of self, and the inability to fully participate in human society.

Connection to the Ocean: The ocean is a central motif, representing both life and death, freedom and confinement. The marrachas’ affinity for the sea underscores their connection to the primal forces of nature.

Key Themes in tide & blood: Unpacking the Novel’s Layers

Beyond the captivating marracha legend, tide & blood delves into several profound themes.

Female Empowerment & Resistance: Despite the challenges they face, the women in the novel demonstrate remarkable resilience and find ways to resist societal expectations.The marrachas, in their own way, represent a form of rebellion.

The Weight of History: The past casts a long shadow over the present. The novel explores how historical injustices and collective traumas continue to shape the lives of contemporary characters.

identity & Belonging: Characters grapple with questions of identity, particularly in relation to their homeland and their ancestral heritage. Emigration and the search for belonging are recurring motifs.

the Power of Storytelling: Storytelling itself is presented as a vital act of preservation and resistance. The oral traditions of the Azores are shown to be a powerful means of transmitting knowledge and maintaining cultural identity.

Environmentalism & Connection to Nature: The novel subtly highlights the importance of respecting and protecting the natural habitat. The characters’ deep connection to the sea and the land underscores the interconnectedness of all living things.

Character Analysis: The Women of São Miguel do Arcanjo

Stömer’s characters are richly drawn and complex.The female characters, in particular, are central to the novel’s thematic concerns.

Iria: A pivotal figure, Iria embodies the struggle between tradition and modernity. Her journey reflects the challenges faced by women navigating a changing world.

Maria: represents the enduring strength and resilience of Azorean women, carrying the weight of family history and societal expectations.

The Marrachas (collective): While individual marrachas* have distinct personalities, they collectively represent a marginalized group seeking agency and freedom. Their stories challenge conventional notions of femininity and identity.

Literary Style & Influences: Stömer’s Unique Voice

Stömer’s writing style is characterized by