Salons have played a crucial role within the literary world for centuries, providing spaces where discussion, creative exchange and collaboration have reigned supreme. From the 17th century salons of Paris, where prominent philosophical writers like Rousseau and Voltaire debated, to the animated gatherings of The Bloomsbury Group in 20th century London, where figures like Virginia Woolf, and E.M Forster thought collaboratively, these assemblies have long proven fertile sites for both literary and intellectual innovation. Today, in an era which often prioritises digital connectivity over face-to-face interaction, literary salons are less mainstream, but their value remains undeniable. If a widespread modern revival is to occur, Edinburgh, with its rich literary history, is the perfect place to begin.
Writing is a rewarding, but often isolating pursuit. Writers spend countless hours secluded, wholly immersed in their work, disconnected from the world around them. Literary salons offer a means to counteract this imposed solitude, not just in an intellectual capacity with the dissemination of ideas and mutual encouragement, but as social hubs too, where writers can unwind, connect and simply enjoy casual conversation. These gatherings create vibrant communities that are essential for both emerging, and established, creators and also serve as a reminder that creative journeys do not need to be navigated alone.
This is particularly pertinent in a place like Edinburgh, a UNESCO City of Literature with an acclaimed literary past. From the Enlightenment-era salons that fostered the ideas of thinkers like David Hume, to the city’s role as the birthplace and home of Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, Arthur Conan Doyle, and more recently Trainspotting’s Irvine Welsh, Edinburgh has continued to be a nucleus for literary prowess and exchange. Ensuring the survival of literary salons, therefore, means that this celebrated heritage can persist, and can continue to evolve with upcoming generations of writers.
One organisation embodying this tradition today is the Edinburgh Literary Salon, who, despite facing challenges, continually thrive due to the dedication of its members (find them on Instagram @EdinburghLitSalon). Originally run by the Edinburgh City of Literature Trust, the salon was at risk of disappearing due to funding cuts in 2018, however, an assemblage of committed volunteers intervened to preserve the salon and its distinct fraternity. They dedicated their own time and resources, ensuring that the salon not only survived, but adapted to new pressures, including the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, they transitioned to digital formats and introduced monthly topic-focused presentations, to compensate for the lack of in-person interaction so as to keep the community connected.
To understand the significance of these literary gatherings, I attended their most recent salon on 25 March, which focused on Screenwriting and featured guest speaker Adam Macpherson, author of Amazon Prime’s The Rig. It feels important to note here that the salon is completely free to attend, operating solely on charitable goodwill and camaraderie. The event took place in the upstairs function room of The Outhouse in Broughton, a cosy and intimate space where an atmosphere of warmth, engagement and belonging was cultivated. The interview with Adam was highly insightful, and audience members were free to ask questions at their leisure – participation was encouraged but never pressured. As I mingled with regular attendees and members of the steering group afterwards, I witnessed the cultural importance of these meetings. Writers and readers of all backgrounds came together to discuss their work, share ideas and support one another; a key takeaway from my visit was the strong sense of literary citizenship that existed – the notion that uplifting others within the literary community ultimately uplifts oneself. Many attendees came not to promote their own work and network, but to celebrate fellow writers and support emerging voices.
If this has piqued your interest, the Edinburgh Literary Salon meets on the final Tuesday of every month – it’s a welcoming, inclusive environment, perfect for writers looking to connect with a like-minded community or for those interested in exploring diverse aspects of the literary arts. The Outhouse’s bar even offers a 10 per cent student discount, making it an overly affordable evening for student writers. Overall, the Salon provides an invaluable opportunity to engage, learn and contribute to Edinburgh’s prolific and diverse literary landscape.
Reinstating literary salons isn’t just about nostalgia – it’s about preserving a tradition that stimulates and nurtures creativity and collaboration. Edinburgh boasts of the history, the talent, and the passion to lead the charge. Why not be part of it?
Photo taken by Olivia Wharam-Lewis