St Baldred of the Bass, a Pictish legend : The Siege of Berwick, a tragedy : with other poems and ballads, founded on the local traditions of East Lothian and Berwickshire

In this lyrical collection the poet brings the ancient Pictish saint to life, weaving reverent verses about his quiet devotion on the isolated Isle of Bass. Through vivid storytelling we learn of the saint’s humble miracles—lifting a treacherous rock to safe‑haven ships and the mysterious division of his body among three neighboring parishes. The narrative balances historical detail with a gentle, oral‑tradition tone, inviting listeners to feel the pulse of early‑medieval Scotland as it once echoed across Lothian’s coast.

The volume continues with a stark, moving tragedy set during the Siege of Berwick, portraying the human cost of conflict with stark, evocative language. Interspersed are additional ballads and poems drawn from East Lothian and Berwickshire folklore, each preserving the region’s distinct voice. Together they form a rich tapestry of legend and history, perfect for anyone who enjoys immersive, poetic journeys through Scotland’s forgotten past.