In this course we will explore the range of locations and contexts that have inspired the rich tradition of poetry in Scotland. From the islands of Orkney to urban Edinburgh and Glasgow, both male and female poets from very diverse backgrounds have developed distinctly Scottish voices.

Beginning with what has been called the ’Scottish Literary Renaissance’ we will go on to read poems that demonstrate the immense diversity of Scottish poetry by considering works by Norman MacCaig who was based in Edinburgh but whose poems often reflect celtic influences. Glaswegian poets, such as Edwin Morgan, the first makar of Scotland, and Liz Lochhead who succeeded him in the role, both write movingly of life in the city.

We will also read poems by Kathleen Jamie whose detailed descriptions of the natural world and Jackie Kay, Don Paterson and John Burnside, all of whom have been prize winning poets.