Plainsong

The cattle—in particular, those on the McPheron farm—represent both the latent knowledge of the previous generations and the struggle to come to terms with the future.

The McPheron brothers are introduced to the narrative through their cattle: “They had the cattle in the corral already” (64). An introduction to the McPherons is as good as an introduction to the cattle and vice versa. The two brothers live an isolated life, and taking care of their herd is one of their only commitments. They meet with Guthrie, Bobby, and Ike, who help to vaccinate the herd of pregnant cows. The process is long, arduous, and invasive. However, for those who are practiced, it is very familiar. They load their truck “without saying anything” (64) and operate on an almost-silent instinct. There is no need for Raymond or Harold to tell the other what to do when it comes to corralling the cattle, as both know exactly what to expect. This is their world, and they move through it with a confidence that can only come from experience. They are informed, quiet, experienced, and confident. Their knowledge of the old, familiar world will be juxtaposed with their inability to navigate the introduction of Victoria and her baby.