"Legacy: the poetry of David Burns" is a collection of poems published to celebrate the life and creativity of David Burns (1931-2020), a Liverpool-born industrial chemist, mathematician, computer pioneer, and prolific late-life poet. Written during his retirement, his poems recount personal memories, family histories and social observations, and are presented with warmth and an unmistakable Liverpudlian wit.
The book is presented in three sections, 'Life and Love', 'Musings' and 'The Last Laugh'. Together they reveal Burns's emotional strain following the death of his wife Lucy, with deeply affectionate poems of marriage, bereavement and graceful ageing, alongside reflections on his childhood, wartime schooling, travel, work, science, faith and politics. Among the collection are poems that recall people and places from Merseyside life, while others gently mock modern British culture and habits.
The poems range from short lyrical pieces, to reflective narrative and satirical monologues. The style of writing has an immediacy as though the poet is speaking directly to the reader, sharing memories, telling a story and observing human behaviour.
The lighter, humorous poems echo aspects of Roger McGough, particularly in their wit and ironic observation. Burns's admiration for McGough is explicit in his writing, and the influence can be seen in his conversational rhythm and narrative style.
Curated by his son, Legacy is a celebration of poetry for readers who value warmth and sensitivity in the written word, offering both a tribute and lasting legacy to David.