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Leading writers highlight strength of Scottish literature
29/11/2005
Some of Scotland's leading writers will take part in a series of events in Brussels to underline the strength of contemporary literature in Scotland.
Best-selling author Alexander McCall Smith kicked off the 'Scottish Writers Series' programme when he delivered the annual St Andrew's Lecture to Scotland Europa members in Brussels. Don Paterson, Anne Donovan and AL Kennedy will participate in future events.
The event was part of a wide range of activity being undertaken across the world to celebrate St Andrew's Day tomorrow, November 30. It is also part of Best Of Scotland week in Brussels.
Minister for Finance and Public Service Reform Tom McCabe said:
"I have no doubt the Scottish Writers Series will be a huge success and I am delighted it will commence with Alexander McCall Smith, one of our most popular authors. The other writers in the series also highlight why contemporary Scottish literature is thriving.
"This is just one event in a week-long series of events in Brussels which will highlight the best of Scotland. And that will complement an enormous range of activity taking place across the globe to celebrate St Andrew's Day.
"St Andrew's Day holds a special place in the heart of Scots. But this is just the start and we are determined that future years put in place an even more ambitious series of St Andrew's Day events which can be promoted abroad and, crucially, which communities across Scotland will all be part of."
Mr McCabe also attended an exhibition of work in the European Parliament by influential Scottish painter John Bellany.
All events in the Scottish Writers Series will take place at Scotland House in Brussels. They are:
- Alexander McCall Smith - November 29, 2005
- Don Paterson - January 25, 2006
- Anne Donovan - February 22, 2006
- AL Kennedy - March 22, 2006