A toast to The Man Himself

Earlier today it was announced that Iain [M] Banks had died. Whilst it was known that his death was imminent, the news was no less the galling for that.

The Man Himself (TMH), as he was known on the fan forums, was erudite, witty, intelligent and humble. His books were imaginative: exploring the extremes of human nature, love and relationships with a mixture of comedy, pathos and violence. The landscapes of his non-Sci Fi books were often evocative and (for Scots at least) recognisable. His characters were mostly well rounded and complex, reflecting reality rather than being standard tropes. His plots could be epic in scope (The Crow Road) or conceived with clever twists (The Wasp Factory). He was never afraid to play with the form of the novel or return to his favourite themes; familial relationships, religion, socialism and secrets were all recurring features of his work.

I met him once, at a book reading in the Waterstone's at the West End of Princes' Street in Edinburgh. To be honest, I can't remember much about it beyond queuing up to get my books signed - I can't even remember what book he was promoting at the time (I came away with a signed copy of The Business and one of The Bridge for my dad; it may have been for the paperback release of The Business or, perhaps, the hardback publication of one of his 'M' novels...) - but I can remember being incredibly pleased to have "met" him, and to have obtained his signature.

Last October, I was supposed to go to a reading for the launch of The Hydrogen Sonata. Sadly, I ended up double booked. Even more sadly, I will never have the opportunity again. I would like, therefore to propose a toast. 

To Iain [M] Banks, The Man Himself, 1954-2013

Andrew

The Voice of Rugby: A Tribute

Bill McLaren
1923-2010

The legendary Rugby commentator Bill McLaren died today. For anyone with even a passing interest in Rugby Union in the second half of the 20th Century his was a familiar - and authoritative - voice.

He was born in Scotland's Rugby heartlands and played the game himself until he had to give up after contracting TB. After this enforced departure from playing the game, he moved into commentating in 1953. He pursued this new career for almost 50 years, only retiring in 2002. During this time he acquired his title as The Voice of Rugby, as well as being awarded the CBE, OBE and MBE.

His commentaries were alive with wonderfully descriptive phrases. His knowledge of the game, it's laws and it's history was encyclopedic. His preparation for each match was extensive ensuring he had all the background, statistics and information he needed at his fingertips. Most of all he had a real passion and love of the game.

For me he was the epitome of what a sports commentator should be: Someone who loves their chosen sport, knows it inside out and has the ability to communicate both to their audience. He was courteous and professional, had a wonderful voice for listening to and was both informative and entertaining.

It was sad to hear of his death, but his memory will live in a generation (or two) of Rugby fans for whom he will always be the definitive voice of the game.

Andrew

The BBC's obituary can be read here.