The Wireless Set

Style

Straightforward Language

• The story is written in mainly undecorated, straightforward language, reflecting the simple and practical attitudes of the inhabitants of Tronvik.
• Direct speech between characters is prevalent, further mirroring their down-to-earth nature.
• For example: "Betsy said to him, 'How many lobsters did you get?' He moved past her and the missionary, without speaking, into the house. Then from inside, he said, 'I got two lobsters.'"
• The language mirrors the characters' practicality and wisdom, such as Hugh's instinctive knowledge of Howie's death without being told, highlighting his deep understanding.

The Use of dialect

• "The Wireless Set" prominently uses Orcadian and Scottish dialect, reflecting the social class and traditional background of the characters.
• The contrast between the Orcadian speech and the language broadcasted from the wireless underscores the theme of questioning modernity and the potential loss of local identity.
• The use of dialect reinforces the characters as traditional Orkney people who communicate in their unique way.

Symbolism

• The wireless set brought to Tronvik symbolises progress, representing war, propaganda, and death.
• The wireless set connects the isolated valley of Tronvik to the broader context of the war, motivating Howie and others to join the war effort and ultimately leading to Howie's death.
• Hugh associates the wireless set with Howie's life and smashes it to protect their island traditions, illustrating the clash between modernity and tradition.

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Prose

traditional values.

• The story's exploration of modernity's impact on human life remains relevant in a global context.