Letter: Proper anthem
However, I cannot be alone in regretting that the tuning of the bagpipes makes it impossible for them to carry the melody at the "tae think again" point of the proceedings. This results in a faltering delivery where some of the crowd follow the incorrect melody of the pipes and others stick to the original tune, creating a discord.
It even happens during the second stanza; these days frequently delivered "a cappella" for dramatic effect. An enfeebled atmosphere ensues, inappropriate to the resolve required against a team such as South Africa. Perhaps it is an echo of our conflicting feelings towards our national identity. Anyone for Scots Wha Hae?
Allan Stevenson
Hope Terrace
Edinburgh