Book description
In a new edition of this classic book, introduced by the
world-renowned Gaelic poet Sorley Maclean, the late Calum I. Maclean,
a Gaelic-speaking Highlander, interprets the traditional background,
culture and ways of life of his native country. Calum's formal
training in folk culture and the depth of his local knowledge make
this book truly outstanding - it is written by a Highlander from the inside.
Many books on the Highlands have been penned by outsiders with an
uncritical appreciation of the scenery and only the most superficial
knowledge of the Gaelic language and culture. By contrast, Maclean
brought informed attitudes and sympathetic opinions. He was concerned
not so much with places, beauty spots and scenery as with the
Highlanders in their own self-created environment. He writes in terms
of individuals and suggests reasons why Highland culture is unique in
the world - it is something that, if lost, can never be recovered or recreated.
Calum I. Maclean was born on the island of Raasay, Inverness-shire,
on 6 September 1915. He was a graduate of Edinburgh University, where he
took the degree of MA with First Class Honours in Celtic. In 1946,
Maclean started the systematic collection of material in the Hebrides on
behalf of the Irish Folklore Commission. In 1951, he joined the staff of
the then newly established School of Scottish Studies at the University
of Edinburgh. His death in 1960 cut short a life and career of immense
value to Highland folklore. This new edition of his book is in the
nature of an acknowledgement of his worth and the legacy he left for
future generations of Highlanders.
