Holyrood 'opens the door' to Edwin Morgan for the first time
089/2006 | 21 November 2006
Two years after he penned a defining poem to mark the opening of the Holyrood building, Scotland's Poet Laureate Edwin Morgan is to see his work on public display for the first time.
Edwin Morgan, 86, has waited two years to make his first trip to Holyrood following a period of ill health. His work, entitled ‘Open the Doors!’, was delivered by poet and playwright Liz Lochhead at the opening in 2004, and marked a key moment in the ceremony which also featured performances from violinist Nicola Benedetti and Eddi Reader.
Speaking ahead of his visit on Tuesday 21 November, Mr Morgan said:
"I have only seen photos of Holyrood so far. It seems a very modern building in terms of its architecture and my poem reflects that. I am pleased I am now well enough to visit and see Holyrood and my poem for myself.”
Presiding Officer George Reid MSP will welcome Mr Morgan to Holyrood and said:
"Edwin’s words moved everyone when Liz Lochhead read them at Holyrood’s opening ceremony two years ago. They continue to serve as a reminder that the Parliament shares its power with the people – that democracy is bigger than a single vote at one moment of time. Edwin’s poem challenges us all – the public and politicians alike.”
Background
Back in October 2004, Mr Morgan revealed it took several months to think about his poem for the opening but just a week to put his thoughts to paper and write the 50-line poem. The poem was transcribed by David Lang and is now displayed in the Main Hall of the Scottish Parliament.
The poet, who is suffering from cancer, was unable to attend the ceremony personally and poet and playwright Liz Lochhead performed its first public reading before The Queen and invited guests at the event on Saturday, October 9 2004.
Mr Morgan has been residing at Clarence Court care home based in Broomhill, Glasgow for the past two and a half years. Clarence Court is owned by Ashbourne Senior Living and specialises in long term and respite care of the elderly.
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