Hillbilly Duality
According to Harkins (2005), the term “hillbilly” resonates differently across the Appalachian South. To some, it’s a slur that conjures images of a wild, untamed life marked by feuds, ignorance, and outdated gender roles. Yet, there’s a defiant pride among those it seeks to label, a refusal to bend to external pressures of modernity.
For these individuals, “hillbilly” symbolizes a fierce independence, a resourceful way of life grounded in self-reliance and deep familial ties. This reclamation of the term paints a picture of resilience, of living harmoniously with the land in a testament to authenticity and a steadfast commitment to one’s roots.