The literary world is mourning the loss of Allan Massie, the esteemed author and journalist who has died at the age of 87. Mr Massie, whose career spanned more than half a century, passed away peacefully, as confirmed by his family.
A Life in Literature and Journalism
Allan Massie was a remarkably prolific figure, having written almost thirty books and reviewed thousands of others during his long career. He only stepped down from his role as the literary critic for The Scotsman last month, citing his battle with what he described as 'wretched cancer.'
His son, Alex Massie, shared the news online, writing movingly about his father's final moments. He stated that his father had 'a good and gentle end to a good and gentle life,' passing away 'at peace, in bed, surrounded by all his children.' Alex noted that outside, his sister's Dandie Dinmont terrier was barking in the garden as his father quietly slipped away, describing it as the sort of death many might wish for.
From Singapore to the Scottish Borders
Born in Singapore in 1938 to a rubber planter, Allan Massie spent his childhood in Aberdeenshire. He was educated at Glenalmond College in Perthshire and later at Trinity College, Cambridge, before embarking on his distinguished career in writing.
Beyond his lengthy tenure at The Scotsman, Mr Massie was a columnist for several major publications, including The Scottish Daily Mail, The Sunday Times, The Herald, and The Daily Telegraph. His journalistic voice was a constant and respected presence in British media.
A Diverse and Celebrated Literary Output
Mr Massie's literary career was both extensive and varied. Publishing books between 1978 and 2015, his work encompassed historical fiction set in ancient Rome and wartime France, as well as non-fiction works on subjects like Scottish rugby and the Stuart monarchs.
Among his most celebrated novels are Augustus (1986), A Question of Loyalties (1989), and Caesar (1993). His final published work was End Games in Bordeaux in 2015.
A Personal Legacy of Kindness and Encouragement
In his personal reflections, Alex Massie highlighted his father's character beyond his public achievements. He described him as 'a good and kind man' who was 'a source of encouragement and much else besides' for many younger writers. Alex emphasised, 'He was also - and forgive me for stressing this but it does feel important - a great father.'
The family's move from London to Selkirk in the Scottish Borders during the 1980s was also touched upon. Alex pondered whether his father's decision was influenced by a desire to ration the 'temptations of metropolitan life,' a sentiment he compared to a similar situation involving author Simon Raven.
Final Reflections
Upon retiring from The Scotsman last month, Allan Massie shared his state of mind. He said, 'I'm not reading much these days. My eyesight isn't what it was, so for the last few months I've been spending my days sitting here, thinking, reflecting and remembering. If this wretched cancer wasn't involved, it would all be quite agreeable.'
His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Scottish and British literary journalism, leaving behind a substantial body of work and a legacy of mentorship and gentle professionalism.
