The MacDiarmid Memorandum: Poems by Alan Riach, Paintings by Alexander Moffat and Ruth Nicol

The MacDiarmid Memorandum is a blend of biography, national history, poetry, and prose, exploring a Scottish consciousness and the trauma and renaissance of Scottish artists and intellectuals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 140 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Scotland Street Press

The MacDiarmid Memorandum, a remarkable work of epic proportions, defies categorization and encompasses a vast spectrum of themes. It seamlessly blends biography, national history, poetry, and prose, offering an intimate portrayal of an old friend and mentor while also serving as a political manifesto advocating for revolution. Riachs' poems take us on a journey through MacDiarmid's childhood in Langholm, his early attempts to navigate the Scottish landscape, and the diverse regions he encountered, from the Borders to Shetland, Edinburgh to rural Lanarkshire. These poems vividly depict a nation where nature and political history are inextricably intertwined, exploring a unique Scottish consciousness that yearns for freedom yet remains weighed down by self-suppression. The text confronts various aspects of MacDiarmid's life, including trauma, divorce, breakdown, wildness, and later, domestic affection. Simultaneously, Scotland endured two world wars, each catalyzing a resurgence of Scottish artists and intellectuals who tirelessly strive to regain international recognition and assert their self-determination.

In addition to Riachs' poetic contributions, the book features reproductions of paintings by artists Alexander Moffat and Ruth Nicol, showcasing some of the landscapes, friends, and associates that were closest to MacDiarmid throughout his long and remarkable life. The frontispiece portrait, created by William Johnstone, provides a captivating glimpse into MacDiarmid's persona, while Ronald Stevenson's song-setting adds an additional musical dimension to the narrative.

The MacDiarmid Memorandum is a testament to the enduring legacy of Alan Riachs and his profound connection with his friend and mentor, MacDiarmid. It serves as a captivating exploration of life, art, and politics, offering a rich tapestry of experiences and insights that resonate with readers of all backgrounds.

Weight: 224g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910895795