Just published is a Collection of Poems & Essays to Mark the Centenary of George Mackay Brown (1921-1996) Edited by Jim Mackintosh & Paul S Philippou ~ Foreword by Asif Khan (Scottish Poetry Library) – Beyond the Swelkie

George Mackay Brown

Drawing on island life and lore, religious culture and histories, and the minutiae of life, George Mackay Brown produced a poetry and prose that established him as one of Scotland’s greatest writers.

Physically centred in Stromness, Brown’s writing radiated far beyond his island home, achieving international acclaim. Upon his gravestone are the lines, ‘Carve the runes/Then be content with silence’.

Beyond the Swelkie is a break in this silence, a symphony of praise by Scotland’s contemporary poets and poetical commentators.

The book is a collection of poetry, short prose and essays in English, Scots and Gaelic celebrating the centenary of George Mackay Brown.

Its contributors are based in and outwith Orkney; each engages with the Makar in their own way. The contributors include many award-winning poets, as well as writers, academics, friends and family of Brown.

The book celebrates and acknowledges Brown’s contribution to twentieth-century poetry and literature, as well as entertains and informs. The cover incorporates the artist Sandy Moffat’s celebrated portrait of George Mackay Brown.

Beyond the Swelkie by Jim Mackintosh & Paul Philippou is published by Tippermuir Books. Price £12.99