"But you have to understand that I consider myself a very modest artist, or whatever, and not of importance really at all - it is quite embarrassing to me to be asked my opinion about things. I am only a wee Scottish poet on the outside of everything"

This quote by Ian Hamilton Finlay speaks with his humility and self-deprecation. He considers himself a "modest artist" and not of any value, and discovers it awkward to be asked his opinion. He sees himself as an outsider, a "wee Scottish poet" who is on the outside of everything. This quote shows his modesty and his desire to remain simple in spite of his accomplishments. He does not wish to be viewed as someone who is important or prominent, however rather as someone who is material to stay on the sidelines. His humbleness is admirable, and it speaks with his character and his worths. He is not looking for acknowledgment or popularity, but rather is content to be a simple poet.