The traditional songs, poetry, and musiC of Scotland are as easy to recognize as they are difficult to define. Just as purple heather cannot describe the whole country, so with traditional arts: no simple description will fit. The fruits of diverse languages and aesthetic values, these traditions are rooted in strikingly different landscapes. Within this small country there are enormous contrasts. Culturally as well as geographically, Scotland could be divided into several (imaginary) areas [see map on page 70], each reflecting a distinct spirit of the Scottish people, their songs, poetry, and music.

Along with the Western Isles (the Outer Hebrides), the Highlands--Scotland's largest land mass and most sparsely populated area--is traditionally home to the Gaels, who make their living from "crofting" (working very small farms), fishing, weaving, whisky distilling, tourism, and, nowadays, computing. "Ciamar a tha thu'n diugh?" a neighbor enquires, in Scottish Gaelic, "How are you today?"