Leith-born Irvine Welsh is one of Scotland’s most popular authors, having short to fame with his debut novel Trainspotting in 1993.
He published his 14th novel, Resolution, earlier this year and has also written, or co-written, a further six books of short stories, 10 screeplays and three stage plays.
Many of his books have been turned into films, including two Trainspotting movies, Filth, The Acid House and Ecstasy.
And when he’s not writing he’s also dabbled in directing and is an in-demand DJ.
To mark his 66th birthday, which he celebrated today (September 27) here are a few words of wisdom from the man himself.
5. Irvine Welsh on...moving to America
"I just love the weather. I live on Miami Beach, which is all boutique hotels and cocktails. I do sometimes go along to smart parties in my white suit, but I wouldn't really recognise any famous people if they were there because I'm not very good at star-spotting." | Getty Images
6. Irvine Welsh on...his first job
"When I left school at 16, I became an apprentice television and radio technician, and was paid £17 a week, which was decent money in 1976. But the job turned sour when I gave myself an electric shock while repairing a television set." | Getty Images
7. Irvine Welsh on...feminism
"We have to give feminism a shot. Out of sheer self preservation, we have to stand aside and let women run the show." | Getty Images
8. James McAvoy on...his readers
"It's different in Scotland. People who come to readings are more interested in literature as such, but the readership in general is really quite diverse. It's a cliche, but it's said that people who read my books don't read any other books, and you do get that element." | Getty Images