The power of Wallace
Cuts through art
But art calls attention to it
Badly or well
from 'Lines for Wallace' by Edwin Morgan
Sir William Wallace - bloodthirsty and battle-hardened hero, liberator and creator of Scotland. Wallace the man was a complex character - loved by the Scots, loathed by the English, a terror to some, an inspirational leader to others. No matter what side you are on, William Wallace is an unmistakable and unforgettable historical figure whose actions at the Battle of Stirling Bridge helped free the Scottish nation. The life and legend of Wallace has been a Muse providing inspiration to poets and artists from Scotland and across the globe for 700 years. From great epic to McGonagall, the violent to the poignant, this collection highlights the impact that the memory of Wallace has made on the nation's culture for centuries.
In The Wallace Muse, Lesley Duncan, poetry editor of The Herald, and Elspeth King, director of the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum, have compiled a selection of Wallace-inspired poetry and artworks created since Wallace's execution in 1305. From Blind Harry to Braveheart, this collection contains a sampling of the wide variety of work that Wallace inspired, including brand new poetry written especially for The Wallace Muse by Edwin Morgan, Les Murray and others.
