The Eye of the Hurricane: Character: Barclay

Overview:

“The Eye of the Hurricane” is a poignant story from the collection “A Time to Keep” by George Mackay Brown. The central character, Barclay, plays a significant role in the narrative.

Character Analysis:

Barclay:

Barclay is the protagonist of “The Eye of the Hurricane”, who lives a simple, solitary life as a fisherman on the island.
He possesses a sense of inherent wisdom about the nature and mysteries of the sea. This profound connection is explored through Barclay’s character.
Despite living a solitary life, Barclay epitomises patience and resilience, demonstrating his ability to withstand the brutal storms and hardships for the love of his work.
Metaphorically, Barclay could be seen as a representation of all fishermen or island dwellers who are totally committed to their harsh and demanding environment.

Themes:

Isolation and Solitude:

Barclay’s character illustrates the theme of solitude - living in isolation far away from the main island, his life revolves around the sea.
His solitary life underlines the emotional isolation and the stoicism of island dwellers.

Man and Nature:

The character of Barclay is a window to Mackay Brown’s exploration of the complex relationship between man and nature.
Barclay’s love and respect for the sea, despite its harshness, illustrate the theme of man’s harmony with nature.

Perseverance and Resilience:

Barclay’s ability to withstand the violent storms symbolically represent perseverance and resilience. He is willing to risk his life for his passion for the sea and his livelihood.

Techniques and Effects:

Mackay Brown uses the character of Barclay as a narrative tool to illustrate the rhythmic and cyclical nature of island life.
By portraying Barclay’s deep connection with the sea, Mackay Brown provides a vivid portrayal of the life of an island dweller.

Quotes and Analysis:

“He was the eye of the Hurricane.” - This quote illustrates the role of Barclay as the fulcrum amidst the turbulent sea, symbolic of his unwavering resilience in face of adversities.

Remember, understanding the intricacies of Barclay’s character can help to bring out a rich interpretation of “The Eye of the Hurricane”. His character provides a lens through which Mackay Brown explores the themes of isolation, man and nature, and perseverance.