Sue Hawes

Friend and ex-neighbour of Alasdair’s sister Mora, who lent her Lanark to read.

What does Alasdair Gray mean to you?

Explain yourself?

Lanark is one of my favourite books. Alasdair's freedom of expression and ability to communicate beyond the written page or canvas is all-encompassing.

What have you done differently because of Alasdair?

I am developing my writing through the Open University and am loving the learning process and the way my writing is changing. Alasdair's work, along with others, has inspired me on this course.

How does Alasdair continue to influence or inspire you?

My natural forms of expression are and always have been drawing and writing, so I naturally feel at ease with Alasdair's work. Both forms of communication are easier and more expressive for me than the spoken word.

Anything else about Alasdair you’d like to add?

I admire his non-compromising vision of life. He seemed to know he wanted to be a writer and artist and did not waiver from that course. Not always an easy path to follow.