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Both topo-mnemonics share a common spatial pattern in the way the place-names they cite are distributed (ssss1). There is a central cluster of names, which are mostly inter-visible and define an intimate locality. Then there are a few other places, which are more removed from the core area. These seem to act as reference points, which anchor the locale to a wider sense of the regional landscape.

Figure 1: Glen Dochart Topo-mnemonic

- Fionn mac Chumhail

Fionn mac Cumhail and the Fianna or Fenians were role models for the Gael. Their personal qualities were often expressed in proverbs (Newton 1999). For the Gael, they embodied ideal and semi-divine characteristics (Wiseman 2009). They were reknowned throughout Ireland and the Scottish Highlands as young warrior bands who protected Gaeldom during the Dark Ages, often from Norsemen. In Glen Lyon - Gleann Lìobhann, or the dark, bent Glen of the Stones - Chromgleann Dubh nan Clach, Fionn and his men had twelve castles from which to conduct their heroic deeds. ‘Bha dà chaisteal deug aig Fionn An Chromgleann Dubh nan Clach’ (in Watson 1937, xxxiii).