The Wireless Set: Theme; Cyclical Nature of Life

Overview:

This theme focuses on how the George Mackay Brown story “The Wireless Set” reflects on the cyclical nature of life despite the turbulent outside world.

Exploration of Theme:

Cyclical Nature of Life

The cyclical pattern of life on the island is depicted through seasonal changes, the routine of the islanders, and the passing of generations.
This pattern stands in stark contrast to the linear progression and chaos of the outside world, represented by the war news from Lord Haw-Haw’s broadcasts.
Through this comparison, Mackay Brown highlights the stability and unchanging rhythm of life on the island, despite the influence of the outside world.

Impact of Cycle on Characters

Characters in the story, especially Howie, find comfort in this cycle as he tends to his daily tasks with regularity.
The contrast with the anxiety and uncertainty from the broadcasts further emphasise the value of the predictable, repeating pattern of island life.

Appreciation of Cycle

Towards the end of the story, there is an emphasis on appreciation and acceptance of this cycle – life continues, uninterrupted and enriched by its own rhythm, in spite of the WWII tableaux relayed via the wireless set.
Howie’s silent expression of gratitude for the unchanging, cyclical nature of life reveals the inherent worth and comfort found in such predictability.

Techniques and Effects

Mackay Brown uses contrast and juxtaposition to bring out the differences between the cyclical nature of island life and the linear, chaotic progression of war.
The routines and cycles in the story are illustrated through descriptive and precise recounting of daily activities, emphasising their consistency and predictability.
There is a repetition of daily activities, annual customs, and generational succession that further underscore the cyclic nature of life and provide a sense of continuity and stability.

Quotes and Analysis

“Howie resumed his work. The old cycle of the seasons. Seedtime and harvest. The rhythm of the loom. The ancient ordering of the days.” - This quote illustrates the unchanging cyclical pattern of life on the island, unaffected by the outside events. It is Howie’s silent assertion that life goes on, simple and undisturbed.

Remember these insights when writing about the theme of ‘Cyclical Nature of Life’ in “The Wireless Set”. Understanding how Mackay Brown presents this theme and its impact on the characters and storyline can enrich your interpretation and elaboration of the text.