Frogs: a poem

Frogs by Norman MacCaig
Gifted in 1997
Special Collections: Ms 3198

–

MacCaig was a prominent figure on Edinburgh’s literary scene of the 1950s and 1960s. He was part of the circle of poets associated with Milne’s Bar, which included Hugh MacDiarmid, George Mackay Brown, Sydney Goodsir Smith, and Tom Scott.

MacCaig read Classics at the University from which he graduated in 1932. After teacher training at Moray House College, he embarked on a career as a schoolmaster, working first as a Latin master, then as a primary teacher at a number of Edinburgh schools.

MacCaig was the University’s first Writer in Residence (1967-1969). During the 1970s and 1980s, he became a popular reader of his own poetry and regularly addressed school and student audiences.

With his many connections to the University, the family gave his collection in 1997. This is one of our Scottish literary collections, many of which highlight the University communities, the relationship between the city and the University and where this comes together through creativity.

Story by Rachel Hosker, Deputy Head of Special Collections and Archives Manager