Louise Welsh - Naming the Bones

Christie had dismissed the science-fiction novel Archie had been writing as worthless, but the poet’s apocalyptic vision might yet turn out to be a classic of the genre, with the potential to attract more readers than the poems ever would.

His brother was still talking. ‘I guess if this poetry collection’s as good as you say, people will take another look at his early stuff.’

Murray shrugged. ‘What does it matter who wrote the poems? It’s the work that counts, right? The art, not the artist.’

Jack laughed. ‘I’m not sure I can agree with you on that one.’

He raised his hand in a wave and walked swiftly towards the reception desk where the curator sat, her long hair falling across her profile like a black satin curtain. ‘Aliah, this is my brother Murray, who I was telling you about. He’s the clever one in the family.’

The woman looked up from her computer, her brown eyes dubious behind her stylish spectacles.

‘Really?’

Murray put a smile on his face and walked towards her. The smile was forced, everything was forced, but for the moment that was just how it had to be.

The author would like to thank the Internationales Künstlerhaus, Villa Concordia, Bamberg, and the Civitella Ranieri Foundation for their hospitality and support during the writing of this book.

Lismore is a beautiful island, rich in wildlife and archaeology, situated in Loch Linnhe on the west coast of Scotland. The islanders are friendly, the B&B is well kept and welcoming. For more details, go to www.isleoflismore.com