Irvine Welsh: podcast appearances and interviews

Irvine Welsh, born on 27 September 1958, is a Scottish novelist, short story writer, screenwriter, and filmmaker. His body of work predominantly features settings within his native Scotland and is recognized for its gritty portrayals of working-class life. Welsh's writing explores themes such as drug addiction, social alienation, lack of opportunity, and boredom. His debut novel, Trainspotting, published in 1993, garnered significant acclaim and was adapted into a film of the same name; both adaptations have achieved cult status. The novel was ranked seventh in a 2016 poll of the best Scottish novels, while the film was named the best Scottish film of all time in a 2004 poll. In addition to his novels, Welsh has authored plays and screenplays, and directed several short films. His works have sold approximately 6 million copies worldwide as of 2025.