Many artists have been tempted to take their paintings down from the wall to add a few finishing touches. The same with authors to edit their books. So the question is, with hindsight, what might we have said differently in our book, Scotland 2070- Healthy, Wealthy and Wise.
As three less well-known authors, we are very pleased with the feedback thus far. Perhaps the most encouraging is that we have added ‘an air of optimism above the sea of pessimism’ prevalent in 2020 and 2021. Our decision to mix fictional stories with well-researched non-fiction has also been endorsed by our readers.
Certainly, one fact needs revising. We quote ‘well over 1 million deaths’ from Covid-19. Whilst not wrong, we could have said ‘well over 3 million’ using official estimates or ‘well over 7 million’ that some people claim is the real number.
There have been two other notable feedbacks. ‘You don’t address the leadership issue enough’. Perhaps our desire to stay clear of the short-term politics of the moment led to that issue. We do raise the subject head on in chapter 8, make a few suggestions and trail the idea of further thinking on the subject. But it’s still brewing in our minds. Easy to point out a problem, more difficult to create a positive solution. Since our book is more about positive futures, all we can say at this stage is ‘Watch this space’.
Secondly, we have been challenged to say something about the creative arts scene in Scotland. Why haven’t we mentioned its success and potential? A fair challenge. It represents a key part of the heart and soul of a country and we are pleased to agree that it is in good shape. It represents about 3% of our economy and is underpinned by institutions of world class standard. We do not see this, however, as one of the six biggest opportunities to rebuild our economy. Nevertheless, we believe funding the sector is essential to create a successful foundation for the country. Another ‘Reason to be cheerful’ in the words of a famous song from a different era.
Finally, the authors themselves believe they have perhaps understated the potential from the marine sector. We do point out that the coastline of Scotland is greater than that of China. Whilst that is a slightly gimmicky headline made possible by all the nooks and crannies of the islands, it does point out that we are surrounded by the deep blue sea. Not just an issue of fishing rights during the Brexit negotiations but much more fundamental. We were reminded recently in discussions with Nova, an exciting new company based in Leith that focusses on tidal power, of the potential from the so-called Blue Economy.
So, in hindsight, if we were to take our book down from the wall, excusing the mixed metaphor, we might make a few edits to add even more to the air of optimism.
Hindsight is a wonderful thing!