Wild Wales: The People, Language, & Scenery

Key themes

Language and Identity

This is the core theme of the book. Borrow passionately argues that the Welsh language is inseparable from Welsh identity and cultural survival. His entire journey is predicated on his desire to speak Welsh with the people, believing it to be the key to understanding their true character and history. He frequently delves into etymology, poetry, and the historical significance of the language, lamenting its decline in some areas and celebrating its vitality in others.

Cultural Preservation and Heritage

Borrow's journey is a quest to experience and document the authentic culture of Wales before it is potentially diminished by modernization and Anglicization. He celebrates traditional Welsh customs, music, literature, and ways of life, often drawing comparisons with other cultures. The book serves as an ethnographic record of a specific time and place, highlighting the importance of holding onto national heritage.

Nature and Landscape

The natural beauty of Wales is a pervasive theme, deeply intertwined with the character of its people and its history. Borrow vividly describes the mountains, valleys, rivers, and coastlines, often imbuing them with a sense of grandeur, wildness, and ancient spirit. The landscape is not merely a backdrop but an active force that shapes the Welsh identity, mirroring its resilience and ruggedness.

Worth discussing

How does Borrow's personal connection to the Welsh language shape his experiences and observations in the book?