Tom Nairn and Sandy Moffat: Portrait of iconoclast

Hands up, I've cheated (slightly). This pic was taken last night, but was too late for yesterday's Blip.

The picture is of the great Tom Nairn, political theorist, commentator and iconoclast. One of the most original and perceptive political theorists of the last 100 years in Scotland, and also revered as a lovely man.

Also in the picture is the renowned artist Sandy Moffat, with his portrait of Tom in the background which was unveiled following the launch of Tom Nairn: Old Nations, Auld Enemies, New Times. Selected essays.

It is fitting that the event was held just before the referendum. Tom over the years has provided the most influential theoretical analysis as to why the British State is in terminal decline and why in Scotland the move to independence is both necessary and inevitable.

That is not to presume the result of the referendum on Thursday, but it is interesting that all of the speakers at the event, and particularly those from beyond Scotland such as Anthony Barnett and Tariq Ali, believe that in many ways the new Scotland has already won, and that it is only matter of time.