# The Shires on the Moray Frith explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by James McIntyre.

## What happens

This poem celebrates the landscapes, history, and cultural landmarks of the shires surrounding the Moray Frith in Scotland, including Strathspey, Elgin, Forres, Nairn, Inverness, and Cromarty. It references ancient ruins, legendary figures like Macbeth and King Duncan, the Battle of Culloden, and modern innovations such as steam plowing, blending pride in heritage with observations on progress and loss.

## Themes in this chapter

### Local Patriotism and Regional Pride

The poem exalts the shires around the Moray Frith, celebrating their natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural traditions like tartan and Highland music.

### Cultural Heritage and Immigrant Identity

References to Macbeth, Burns, Shakespeare, and the tartan plaid highlight the deep literary and folkloric heritage of the Scottish Highlands.

### Progress and Technology

The mention of the Duke plowing hills and rocks by steam reflects the introduction of industrial farming methods, contrasted with the 'cruel clearings' of the past.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Burns

Mentioned as one who tuned his lyre near the Falls of Foyers.

### Shakespeare

Referenced in connection with the witches' cauldron and the story of Macbeth.

### King Duncan

Noted as meeting his death in the country of Macbeth.

### Hugh Millar

Referenced as a mason who learned his geologic lesson from the old red sandstone of Cromarty.

## Key lines

> Worthy of either song or story Are the shires round Frith of Moray

The counties surrounding the Moray Frith are deserving of both poetic and narrative celebration.

_Opens the poem with a declaration of the region's worthiness for artistic tribute._

> Here lies the valley of Strathspey, Famed for its music, lively, gay

The Strathspey valley is renowned for its cheerful and energetic music.

_Highlights the cultural significance of Strathspey in Scottish folk music._

> Where Duke has harnessed mighty team, Plows hills and rocks and moors by steam

The Duke has employed a powerful steam engine to plow even the most rugged terrain.

_Illustrates the impact of technological progress on agriculture in the Highlands._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_12_se/chapters/the-shires-on-the-moray-frith
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_12_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_12_se/chapters