A wholly positive aspect of the Scottish parliamentary tradition is the way that peoples' poetry and song has been incorporated into key democratic moments. For example, Dundee-born Sheena Wellington sang Robert Burns’ song A Man's A Man For A' That at the 1999 opening ceremony of the Scottish Parliament.
Creative and thoughtful words are also incorporated into the very fabric of the building, on the Canongate Wall, which runs along the Royal Mile.
Now, to mark the twentieth anniversary of the parliament, a further three quotations are to be added - and there's an open vote to determine which ones.
The quotes are from the work of the three women who have so far served as Scottish Makar, or national poet: Liz Lochhead, Jackie Kay, and Kathleen Jamie. Find out more and listen to the women talking about their work by clicking here; read the shortlisted quotes and cast your votes here; and, if you are a teacher or work with young people, access curriculum materials here. The deadline for voting is 13 March.
Published 23 February 2025.