RABBIE Burns was honoured in song in a very modern, flashy way when a bunch of strangers got together to sing one of his most popular tunes.
The Scottish Poetry Library, in partnership with Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature, organised a mass rendition of ‘A Man’s a man for a’ That’ in Edinburgh’s city centre yesterday (Tues).
A group of willing volunteers, also known as a flashmob assembled to The Square outside St Giles Cathedral and sang the tune with gusto.
Andrew Philip, 35, used his lunch break from the Parliament to participate, he is also a poet.
He said: “Its a great idea. I’m here because I think Burns is a fine poet and his work is impressive.
“I’m supportive of any new ways to celebrate Scottish literature in general and bring it to the attention of public especially when its creative and fun.
“It seems somehow that poetry can be pushed aside despite the best efforts of poets.”
Peggy Hughes the communications officer and events organiser at the Scottish Poetry Library said: “Its always good to have poetry in a public place I think, and certainly what’s been lovely about today is that I’ve clapped eyes on loads of people I don’t know from the library, I don’t know how they heard about it.
“I am delighted by the turn out really thrilled that so many people made it along and made the effort to come out. Its not the nicest of days so I’m glad that they did.
“The song itself was masterful.”
She added: “I think his songs and his verses and the ones that have become songs to us now they’re still as current and topical as ever.”
