Remembering Nan Shepherd

Fraser MacDonald reflects on the life and legacy of Nan Shepherd, a significant yet often overlooked Scottish writer, particularly in the context of his own family history. Following the deaths of his parents, MacDonald began scanning their old photographs and slides, which led him to reminisce about his childhood in Cults, where Shepherd lived and taught. His mother, May Salmond, was a student of Shepherd's at the Aberdeen Training Centre, where Shepherd's unconventional teaching style left a lasting impression. Despite her literary accomplishments, including the celebrated work "The Living Mountain," Shepherd was not widely recognized during her lifetime. MacDonald contrasts the current appreciation of Shepherd's work with her earlier neglect, noting her growing reputation as a voice for women's experiences in nature writing. He discusses the complexities of her character, including her perceived intellectual elitism and the disconnect between her literary persona and her local community. The recent revival of interest in Shepherd's life and works, including plays and academic studies, highlights her significance in contemporary literature. MacDonald also examines her correspondence with other writers, revealing a more personal side to her character, while acknowledging the mixed feelings some locals had about her. Ultimately, he suggests that Shepherd's legacy is multifaceted, embodying both the romantic notion of the unrecognized genius and the realities of her social interactions.

- Fraser MacDonald reflects on his memories of Nan Shepherd and her impact on his family.

- Nan Shepherd was an influential yet underappreciated writer during her lifetime.

- Her teaching style and literary contributions have gained recognition posthumously.

- Shepherd's character is complex, with elements of intellectual elitism noted by her contemporaries.

- Recent tributes and studies highlight her significance in nature writing and women's experiences.