The northern lights and other poems

As an aristocrat by birth, Violet Jacob's decision to write poetry in Scots dialect risked ridicule from her peers, who considered it vulgar. Most others would struggle to take her efforts seriously - until they read it. 'Northern Lights and Other Poems' shows her consummate knowledge and use of the vernacular. The verses are packed with rich detail about people and places - exploring emotions, the natural world, sexuality and a love for Scotland. This collection is perfect for fans of the poetry of Marion Angus and William Dunbar. Violet Jacob (1863-1946) was a Scottish novelist and poet. She is best known for her historical novel of the Jacobite Rising 'Flemington' and for her poetry, written primarily in Scots. She was born into the House of Dun, an aristocratic family, and was of Royal heritage, as the great-granddaughter of King William IV - though his child, her grandmother, was illegitimate. The essayist, journalist and political figure Hugh McDiarmid described Jacob as "by far the most considerable of contemporary vernacular poets".