Alan Bissett and the « Yes » Campaign in the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum

Abstract

Among the many writers and artists involved in the « Yes » campaign for the Scottish Independence Referendum in September 2014, the author and performer Alan Bissett stands out. His fervent commitment, as part of National Collective, involved speechmaking at rallies, public debating, poetry recitals on- and off-line, and the creation of referendum-themed poetry, plays and essays. His international(ist) socialism is paradoxically combined with a firm belief in the necessity for an independent republic, as opposed to the Scottish National Party vision of an independent state in which the current monarchy and establishment ethos still have a place. At the same time, he recognises the vital role played by the Scottish National Party and Alex Salmond in triggering the popular will for independence. Popularising key issues through his cultural productions, in varying registers and tones, he confirmed the need for an alternative way of doing politics. His commitment continues today for the upcoming Holyrood elections in May 2016. As a politically committed creative, he will be involved in the brand new party RISE (Respect, Independence, Socialism, Environmentalism) Scotland’s Left Alliance.