Eleanor Service |
On Saturday December 5th 2015, Scottish literature suffered a huge loss. Tragically, William McIlvanney passed away peacefully in his home, at age 79, after suffering a short illness. McIlvanney is one of the most famous and influential Scottish writers. He became popular through his novel ‘Docherty’ which was published in 1975, and he went on to gain more acclaim through his 1977 novel ‘Laidlaw’.
His career as a full-time writer began in 1975, after nearly two decades as an English teacher in Ayrshire. McIlvanney was known for capturing the voice of working class people, with vivid and intelligent expression, that gave authenticity to his work. He is also said to have inspired famous literary detectives such as Rebus, with his detective ‘Laidlaw’. McIlvanney didn’t just write crime fiction, he also wrote poetry and short stories, as well as literary novels and essays since the 1960’s. It was his ‘Laidlaw’ detective series, though, that really brought him into the limelight.
St Andrew’s and St Bride’s welcomed the author only a year ago to the school for a discussion with students about his work and life. He is remembered fondly by all in the English department.
McIlvanney’s death affected many people in the literary community, and beyond. ‘Rebus’ author Ian Rankin said that William McIlvanney was “a truly inspired and inspiring author and an absolute gent” and that his death was “dreadful news”. The First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon also tweeted “shedding a tear at news of William McIlvanney’s death. His writing meant so much to me when I was growing up”. This shows the influence that McIlvanney’s work had on not only his own community of writers, but also on the people that read and enjoyed his work. A tribute to him, and his amazing and influential work.
