Theme: Nature

Theme: Nature in The Cone Gatherers

Nature’s Contrast to Human Society

  • In Jenkins’ novel, nature is often portrayed as a stark contrast to human society. The untouched beauty and rawness of the Scottish highlands represent everything that human society, with its prejudices and hatred, is not.
  • The use of natural imagery throughout the novel, from the majestic forest to its wildlife, provides a backdrop that is free from prejudice, conflict and corruption, highlighting the innate goodness that lies beyond the sphere of human influence.
  • The novel explores the idea that the innocent purity of nature is frequently disrupted or corrupted by human intervention.

Interaction Between Characters and Nature

  • Each character’s interaction with nature reflects their moral and emotional states. For example, Calum’s love and kindness towards animals signifies his innocence and compassion, whereas Duror’s destructive instincts reveal his inner turmoil.
  • Nature is also a means of highlighting social class divisions, where the grandeur of the forest contrasts with the dirty and hardworking life of the cone gatherers.

Symbolism of Nature

  • Several natural elements in the novel are used symbolically, to highlight key themes and ideas. The storm that occurs after Duror’s shocking confession can be seen as a form of nature’s retribution, reflecting the intensity of Duror’s hatred and inner turmoil.
  • The woods, often described as being peaceful and untouched, can also be seen as an Edenic paradise, reinforcing Calum’s portrayal as a Christ-like figure.

Nature’s Role in The Cone Gatherers’ Tragic Conclusion

  • The novel’s tragic climax, set against the backdrop of a tree, underscores the integral role nature plays in the narrative. The fact that Duror chooses a tree - a part of nature that is peaceful and non-judgmental - to execute his destructive plan further indicates his domination over innocence and his disrupted relationship with nature.
  • Calum’s death in the woods, an environment he dearly loved, is deeply ironic and highlights the cruel and senseless reality of prejudice and hatred.
Reflecting on the role of nature in ‘The Cone Gatherers’ can provide deeper insights into key themes, character development, and the social commentary offered by Robin Jenkins. It is always vital to discuss the impact and significance of nature when analysing the novel.