Irvine Welsh says he doesn’t believe in marriage despite having tied the knot three times

Irvine Welsh, the renowned author of Trainspotting, has shared his views on marriage, expressing that despite having been married three times, he does not believe in the institution. Welsh, who recently wed actress Emma Currie, reflected on his previous marriages as being pragmatic decisions. However, he described his current marriage as a romantic gesture, stating that he was so deeply in love with Currie that he felt compelled to walk down the aisle for the third time.

Speaking on a BBC Radio 4 show hosted by Kirsty Young, Welsh opened up about his perspective on marriage. Despite his multiple marriages, he admitted to never having a desire to get married initially. Welsh explained that his third marriage to Currie was driven by his strong feelings for her and a desire to make a romantic statement to the world.

The 66-year-old author shared that he was attracted to women who did not want children, as he himself did not have the desire to become a parent. Welsh expressed his belief that the romance in a relationship diminishes once children are involved, revealing his own preference for a child-free lifestyle.

Welsh also delved into his past, recalling an incident from his childhood when he received a criminal record at the age of eight for playing football in the streets of Muirhouse, Edinburgh. The author highlighted his journey from a troubled youth, marked by minor offenses, to his eventual transition to writing as a means of self-expression and redemption.

Reflecting on his literary works, particularly his portrayal of Scotland’s drug scene in Trainspotting, Welsh defended his approach as responsible and realistic. Despite facing criticism for his raw depiction of drug addiction, he argued that acknowledging the harsh realities of drug use was essential in conveying the full spectrum of consequences.

In addition to his insights on marriage and personal experiences, Welsh shared anecdotes from his upbringing in Edinburgh and London, providing a glimpse into his formative years and the influences that shaped his writing career. Amidst discussions of his past and present, Welsh also hinted at his future projects, including a musical adaptation of Trainspotting for the stage.

Overall, Irvine Welsh’s candid revelations offer a multifaceted perspective on relationships, creativity, and personal growth, showcasing the complexities of his journey as a writer and individual.