So here we are again folks, over 250 years since Robert Burns’ birthday we are still celebrating his life. All over the world in every hour of every day around this time, people will be celebrating the life of the ‘Lad wha was born in Kyle’. Burns memory is enduring and while the number of Burns Clubs and Societies world-wide may be declining in numbers, the number of Burns Suppers and celebrations is at an all-time high. The interest in the champion of democracy and equality simply increases year on year.
The Burns brand is THE Scottish brand and is a world phenomenon. The impact one man has had on the world in a very short life is immeasurable. In a time where there is an increased demand on all Scottish produce, Burns is at the forefront of all things cultural and economic. The true value of Burns to the Scottish Economy is not fully understood but the debate led by Joan McAlpine in our Parliament last week will be the beginning of some true measurement of the value of Burns to our economy.
Burns is everybody’s poet, a large piece in a jigsaw of Scottish cultural greats, a man influenced by the men of his time, Allan Ramsey and Robert Fergusson and in turn a man who has influenced thousands of poets, musicians politicians , lovers and of course dreamers the world over. Burns is fashionable, he enriches our culture, our language and our prosperity.
And as you raise a dram to our National Bard, remember the vital ingredient for a Burns celebration where ever you are, have FUN !
