An Staran

By Derick Thomson, Edited by Petra Poncarova

This is a selection of the Gaelic prose writings of Prof Derick Thomson (1921 – 2012). As well as being one of the most important Gaelic poets of the 20th century, Thomson, as the publisher and editor of the quarterly Gairm, shaped the development of Gaelic writing in the post-war period.

As an anthology of short stories, essays, reviews, travelogues and other genres of writing, the book aims to showcase lesser known aspects of Thomson as a writer – for example his skilful use of language, sharp intellect, his commitment to Gaelic and to Scotland and his incisive wit. There is also a short biographical introduction to Thomson.

This book would be suitable for an adult readership, especially readers interested in Gaelic literature and politics. It could also be useful as a resource for students. Much of the material is not easily available outside of libraries or institutions that have a complete set of Gairm magazine available.

Tha Ruaraidh MacThòmais (1921–2012) aithnichte mar bhàrd, ollamh, agus iomairtiche as leth na Gàidhlig – ach a bharrachd air sin, b’ e sgrìobhadair rosg ealanta agus neach-naidheachd geur a bh’ ann. Anns an leabhar seo, gheibhear, airson a’ chiad turas, a h-uile sgeulachd ghoirid a dh’fhoillsich MacThòmais agus a chaidh lorg gu ruige seo, còmhla ri taghadh de sgrìobhaidhean eile a nochd ann an Gairm, an ràitheachan a chuir MacThòmais air bhonn còmhla ri Fionnlagh Iain MacDhòmhnaill: lèirmheasan air leabhraichean a ghlac aire MhicThòmais, aithisgean-siubhail à Canada agus às na dùthchannan Lochlannach, colbhan-beachd, agus aistean air Gàidhlig agus poilitigs. Anns na pìosan seo, chithear lèirsinn fharsaing, spèis do charaidean agus do sgrìobhadairean eile, faireachdainnean domhainn, àbhachdas, agus beachdan MhicThòmais air an toirt am follais ann an dòigh ùr is brìoghmhor.