Read the text of his address here > [Special Report]  >> [transcript]

Summary of the Speech:

• Foundation of the Club: Cooper narrated the origins of the Club, which stemmed from a conversation at a dinner in Holyrood Palace, where it was noted that, unlike Robert Burns, there was no dedicated club in Edinburgh to honour Sir Walter Scott. A letter was sent to The Scotsman (which Cooper edited), sparking enthusiasm and leading to the Club's formation.
• Scott’s Legacy & Importance: Cooper highlighted Scott’s immense contribution to literature and culture. He argued that silent admiration was insufficient—Scott’s influence should be actively shared with new generations. The Club, he emphasized, had two main duties: to honour Scott’s memory and to introduce more people to his works.
• Scott’s Character & Work Ethic: He praised Scott not only as a literary genius but as a kind, honest, and diligent man. Cooper dispelled criticisms that Scott was a "snob" for aspiring to own an estate, arguing that this was a natural extension of his admiration for Scottish history and identity.
• Scott’s Popularity & Enduring Relevance: While some claimed Scott was less widely read than before, Cooper countered that his works remained in high demand. He noted that in Germany, Scott’s novels were used in schools, whereas many Edinburgh students had little knowledge of them—something the Club could help change.
• Scott’s Influence on Scottish Identity: Cooper underscored how Scott’s writings shaped Scottish patriotism and national pride, quoting The Lay of the Last Minstrel to illustrate Scott’s deep connection to his homeland.
• The Importance of the Club’s Mission: He encouraged members to keep Scott’s memory alive, advocating for events and initiatives that would promote his works and values.

Interesting Points:

• Scott’s Writing Process: Cooper shared an anecdote where Scott described his writing method—he would mentally compose his works while lying in bed before rising, or while taking walks.
• Wilkie’s Account of Scott’s Life: A letter from the artist David Wilkie provided a vivid image of Scott as a warm, humorous, and engaging host who concealed his authorship of the Waverley Novels even from his own family.
• Scott’s Integrity in Adversity: Cooper emphasized Scott’s remarkable perseverance in repaying his debts through writing after his financial downfall, calling it a testament to his character.
• Criticism of Scott’s “Snobbery”: He dismissed accusations that Scott’s desire to be a landed gentleman was snobbish, arguing that his aspirations were a reflection of his love for Scottish tradition.
• Call to Action: The speech ended with a passionate appeal to ensure that future generations appreciated Scott’s work, framing the Club’s role as essential in preserving his literary and cultural legacy.

Read the text of his address here > [Special Report]  >> [transcript]