Robert Burns (1759-1796) was chosen as the greatest Scot in a 2009 TV vote. He is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland, and credited with writing the words for Auld Lang Syne. In fact, he was responsible for collecting many songs and lyrics handed down through the centuries, thus preserving Scottish language and culture. He continues to be a cultural icon and inspiration to artists in all creative fields.

First published by Everyman Paperbacks in 1996.