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Mary Irvine’s Blog: ‘Blackbird Singing’ – an evening with Graham Morgan

‘Blackbird Singing’ – a review

Thirty souls came along to the latest ‘An Evening with…’ event at the Helensburgh library, last Thursday. This time the author was Graham Morgan, who was in conversation with Robin Lloyd-Jones. Under discussion was Graham’s second book, ‘Blackbird Singing’, a sequel to his debut book ‘Start’.

Pictures in words

In this second book, as with the first, Graham conjures up pictures in words of the beauty of nature in all its forms. With his excellent command of the English language he always conveys the strength of his love of nature, the environment generally and the importance of these in his life. He also deals with the death of a loved one but so beautifully written the reader does not feel depressed.

Mental Health

In both books Graham is totally honest about his problems with mental illness and the effects on himself and those closest to him. At this point in the conversation it was noted how sensitively Robin approached the subject.  Graham spoke honestly of the anger he felt about the system that deals with mental health.  He has worked in mental health for 30 years and  has an MBE for services to mental health. Anyone wishing to know more about his work can access information on Scottish Mental Health Review – Mental Health and Rights Everyone’s Business, Graham Morgan  and  See Me – end mental health disccrimination – introducing graham morgan These websirwa will also lead you to several other sites regarding the work he does.

A Love Story

Graham describes the book as a love story to his partner, Wendy, and her children, and acknowledges how much he owes to this relationship. Although some might feel parts of the book difficult it does end on a very positive note.                                                          

Graham has come on a long journey and still continues on that journey but recognises there is, in life, a need for kindness, not just to others, but to himself. His gift of writing is a joy and a beacon of hope, proof that anyone living with mental illness can make a positive contribution to, and be a valuable member of, society.

Both of Graham’s books are available from: Fledgling Press or Amazon

An Evening with Mary Edward, Helensburgh Library, 24 November.

Next ‘An Evening with,,,’ is on Thursday, 24^th November at 7 p.m. in the Helensburgh Library.  Mary Irvine will be talking with Mary Edward about the latter’s new historical fiction, ‘Gallowgate’.

Mary Irvine, October, 2022

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