In the book "The Importance of Being Seven" by Alexander McCall Smith, the author explores the cultural nuances of the north-east of Scotland. Notably, he mentions the absence of a specific word for self-pity in the local language. Instead, there exists a term that captures a sense of regret over excessive spending, highlighting the region's pragmatic approach to emotions and concerns.

This linguistic observation reflects broader themes in the narrative about how people cope with their feelings and experiences. By illustrating this gap in language, McCall Smith underscores the idea that cultures can have distinct ways of processing emotions, which influences personal identities and social interactions.