A new plaque recognising the contribution of Edinburgh's Makars, a local version of the poet laureate, is to be unveiled in the City Chambers, tomorrow morning. The plaque will be unveiled by the current Edinburgh makar, Ron Butlin, on his 60th birthday.
The plaque bears the names of the three writers who have held the office to date: Stewart Conn (Makar from 2002 to 2005), Valerie Gillies (Makar from 2005 to 2008) and the current incumbent, Ron Butlin (Makar from 2008 to 2011).
The Scots word Makar means "one who fashions, constructs, produces, prepares, etc." (Dictionary of the Scots Language), and in a literary context it is the role of the poet or author as a skilled and versatile worker in the craft of writing.
The City of Edinburgh instituted the post, in 2002, of Edinburgh Makar. The civic post of Makar is selected by representatives of the Scottish Poetry Library, Scottish PEN, The Saltire Society, City of Literature Trust and the City of Edinburgh Council.
To be eligible, nominees must be resident in, or have a strong connection with, the City of Edinburgh.
The chosen candidate will have an established reputation as a writer, have the ability to act as the City’s literary ambassador, and be a highly motivated and personable individual.
The honorary post lasts for three years during which the Makar receives a small honorarium from the Council, and in return is asked to compose poems on Edinburgh, its people and aspects of life in the city, assist in the promotion of poetry in partnership with literary organisations, and select poetry for the Council's website.
Ron Butlin took up the post of Makar on the 1st June 2008.
"We're delighted to be able to celebrate our cherished makars with this new plaque, which Ron Butlin will unveil for us on Tuesday at the City Chambers. This ceremony also marks a very special milestone for Ron - his 60th birthday. On behalf of the Council, we wish him many happy returns and are looking forward to hearing his poetic thoughts on turning 60."
Ron Butlin's works include the novels 'The Sound of My Voice' (winner of the Prix Mille Pages 2004 and Prix Lucioles 2005, both for Best Foreign Novel), 'Night Visits' and most recently, 'Belonging'; three collections of stories: 'The Tilting Room', 'Vivaldi and the Number 3' and 'No More Angels', as well as six books of poetry. Besides his radio plays, much of his work has been broadcast in Britain and abroad. His fiction and poetry have been translated into over ten languages.
"I'm hoping that turning 60 will be a bit like turning 20, but three times the fun. So much for the wisdom of age!" said Butlin.