Style and Technique: Symbolism

Overview

The Cheviot, the Stag and the Black, Black Oil makes extensive use of symbolism as a literary device.
Symbolism helps to add depth and layer the narrative, providing powerful insight into the themes of exploitation and upheaval.

The title itself is symbolic, representing the three eras of exploitation suffered by the Scottish Highlands and Islands.
- The Cheviot refers to the sheep farming industry which was implemented following the Highland Clearances.
- The Stag reveals the shift to hunting and game, where land was privatised and regular folks were exclused for the profit of landowners.
- The Black, Black Oil symbolises the oil industry’s dominance from the 1970s, indicating the resource exploitation and environmental disregard that followed.

Both characters are symbolic figures representing the external powers exploiting Scotland’s resources.
Patrick Sellar, associated with the Highland Clearances, stands for the aristocratic landlords driving farmers off their land to introduce sheep farming.
Texas Jim symbolises the rapacious oil industry, showing how external corporations have drained Scotland’s resources for their own gain.

Symbolism provides commentary on the historic and contemporary upheaval the Highlands and Islands have faced.
It underlines the harsh reality of economic exploitation, revealing the impact on local communities and the environment.

Symbolism engages audiences by providing multifaceted interpretations of key themes and providing context to complex historical events.
It aids in understanding the profound influences external corporations have had on Scotland’s culture, economy, and environment.

Symbolism also captures the repetitive cycle of history, showing new forms of exploitation replacing old ones.
It identifies patterns that recur over time, highlighting the everlasting issue of external control over Scotland’s resources.