John Struthers (poet)

John Struthers (1776-1815) was a Scottish poet, born in Longcalderwood, near East Kilbride, Lanarkshire. Largely self-educated, he worked primarily as a shoemaker and tailor throughout his life. Despite his humble background, Struthers achieved recognition for his poetry, which often reflected the lives and concerns of the working class in Scotland.

Struthers's early works were published in local newspapers and periodicals. His most notable publication was Poems on Various Occasions (1803), which brought him considerable attention and established his reputation as a significant voice in Scottish poetry. The volume included poems on themes of nature, rural life, and social commentary. He also authored The Poor Man's Sabbath (1804), a didactic poem exploring the spiritual and moral significance of the Sabbath for the working class.

Struthers was known for his strong moral convictions and his commitment to social justice. His poetry often expressed sympathy for the poor and marginalized, and he used his writing to advocate for improved living conditions and greater opportunities for the working class. He corresponded with several prominent literary figures of his time, including Robert Burns, although their meeting is disputed by some scholars.

He held the position of librarian in Glasgow for a period. He is buried in the Gorbals Burial Ground, Glasgow. His work continued to be published posthumously, securing his place as a working-class poet of note in early 19th-century Scotland.