Irvine Welsh on “Dumbed-Down Machines” and the Enduring Spirit of Leith

Irvine Welsh, the iconic author behind the cult classic “Trainspotting,” is set to release a sequel, “Men in Love,” delving deeper into the lives of his notorious characters. In a recent interview, Welsh offered a candid reflection on his creative journey, the societal shifts he’s witnessed, and his enduring connection to his hometown of Leith.

From his early days writing “Trainspotting” in a second-floor room overlooking a Leith park, Welsh’s career has been a trajectory of raw, unflinching storytelling. The novel, which captured the zeitgeist of urban decay and addiction in 1990s Britain, went on to sell over a million copies and spawned a critically acclaimed film. Welsh recalls the intense focus he had during that period, feeling it was his “last chance to do something creative.”

The enduring impact of “Trainspotting” is palpable, with official tours still operating in Leith. Welsh himself recently guided a tour through the city’s iconic locations, including the distinctive Banana Flats (Cables Wynd House), the setting for Sick Boy’s upbringing, and the Leith Dockers’ Club, a place of childhood memories and youthful resentment for the author.

His latest work, “Men in Love,” picks up immediately after the events of “Trainspotting,” exploring the complexities of relationships and love among his characters. Welsh explained his motivation for this new direction: “we’re living in a world that seems to be so full of hate and poison… I think that it’s time we focused more on love as a kind of antidote to all that.” However, fans can expect Welsh’s signature blend of dark humor and complex characterizations, as the novel does not shy away from the “cheating, lying, manipulative – and at times, horrifying – behaviour” of some of his protagonists.

The novel includes a disclaimer addressing the use of potentially offensive language, a nod to the changing social landscape. Welsh expressed concern over what he perceives as an increasingly “censorious environment,” warning against the dangers of prohibiting certain forms of expression, even when the language is problematic.

In an era of 90s nostalgia, with bands like Oasis and Pulp enjoying renewed popularity, Welsh observes that younger generations are drawn to the perceived authenticity of that decade. He suggests that the internet and social media, while initially promising, have become a “controlling rather than an enabling force,” potentially leading to a future where individuals become “dumbed down machines that are taking instructions.” His background in understanding addiction informs his cautious approach to digital engagement, noting the unsettling ubiquity of smartphones.

Welsh’s artistic process is deeply intertwined with music; he describes writing with a “four-four beat” in mind, creating playlists for each character. Renton’s musical taste includes Iggy Pop and Velvet Underground, while Sick Boy leans towards Marvin Gaye and Bob Dylan. Even the volatile Begbie has a penchant for Rod Stewart and power ballads.

The author also touched upon the political climate, reflecting on the decline of industries like shipbuilding in Leith under Margaret Thatcher. He posits that the concentration of wealth has blurred traditional class lines, creating a “Precariat” where economic insecurity is widespread. This, he believes, contributes to a societal shift where people are more susceptible to populist rhetoric promising change.

Welsh’s perspective extends to the cultural impact of economic transformation, suggesting that “Trainspotting” resonated because it mirrored a societal adjustment to a world with less traditional employment. He sees a revolutionary transformation occurring in our economy and society, impacting all classes.

Beyond his literary endeavors, Welsh is also releasing an album with the Sci-Fi Soul Orchestra, featuring disco tracks inspired by the emotional landscape of “Men in Love.” He remains deeply connected to his roots, maintaining friendships from childhood, like the one with the plumber he met at primary school, underscoring that despite his success, he is still anchored in the community that shaped his iconic literary world.

“Men in Love” is scheduled for publication on July 24, 2025.