The Matchgirls' Strike
by Wojciech Filaber
Inspiration for the novel The Matchgirls’ Strike
Wojciech Filaber’s evocative novel, The Matchgirls’ Strike, draws inspiration from his journey as an immigrant from Poland to England in 2009. It was during his time working at a cinema in Swiss Cottage that his passion for storytelling blossomed, fuelled by conversations with friends about film and screenwriting.
A pivotal moment came when Filaber and his University tutor, Jonathan, watched the film Peterloo. Intrigued by the idea of significant yet overlooked events in British history, Filaber asked Jonathan about stories worth telling on the big screen. This conversation led to the discovery of the Matchgirls Strike, a historical event that sparked Filaber’s imagination.
Delving into extensive research on the Victorian era and the conditions surrounding the Great Famine, Filaber began to imagine the lives of young match girls labouring at the Bryant and
May factory, to write a script for a movie he envisioned. He meticulously crafted characters, drawing inspiration from the stark realities of their existence. One particularly poignant insight from his script doctor highlighted the grim conditions: “The little boy in the story wouldn’t have a decent toy like a teddy bear with a broken ear. He would likely play with a worn wooden soldier and sleep on a torn mattress.”
This attention to detail and authenticity is evident throughout the novel that has been written based on the screenplay; both written pieces present a fictional narrative rooted in real people and events. Filaber’s dedication to capturing the essence of Victorian life is commendable, as he incorporates regional dialects and cultural nuances, enriching the storytelling experience.
The narrative unfolds through the eyes of the match girls, showcasing their relentless struggle
for dignity and fairness amid appalling working conditions. Filaber paints a vivid picture of
their daily battles, blending heartache with hope as they navigate their harsh realities, and all
this reads at a fast moving movie like pace with an interwoven dialogue and descriptions.
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The Matchgirls’ Strike is more than just a historical account; it serves as a poignant reminder
of class struggles and the enduring spirit of those who dared to fight for change. Through the
characters' journeys, the novel embodies the spirit of rebellion that ultimately led to the
formation of one of the first women’s unions in Britain.
This heartfelt tribute weaves together history and imagination, encouraging new generations
to recognize and challenge the inequalities that persist today. Filaber’s novel is a powerful
exploration of resilience, making it a must-read for anyone interested in social justice and the
stories of those who came before us.