In "The Uncommon Appeal of Clouds," Alexander McCall Smith reflects on the evolution of education and its impact on cultural identity. He notes that the experiences of individuals from past generations were shaped significantly by their schooling, particularly those educated in systems resembling the English public-school model, even within Scotland. This educational background influenced their perspectives and manners of expression.

The quote emphasizes how such educational influences could lead to a change in one’s voice and demeanor over time, as those systems often prioritized certain values and ways of thinking. As a result, the nuances of local identity and expression might have been overshadowed by the characteristics fostered in these schools, affecting how individuals relate to their heritage.