Arthur Machen and WH Davies

Here's an interesting image of Welsh author of weird fiction Arthur Machen (left), and WH Davies (right) who penned Autobiography of a Super-Tramp. Two of Gwent's most famous literary sons pictured together. The photo was taken in 1937 in Newport before a special luncheon in honour of Machen who was celebrating his 74th birthday.

Machen is one of my favourite Welsh writers of all time but oh his politics! In 1938 about 100 prominent British authors were canvassed on the subject of the Spanish Civil War. The vast majority came out in favour of the Republican cause. Machen, however, was one of the exceptions, he wrote: "Mr Machen presents his compliments, and begs to state that he is, and always has been, entirely on the side of General Franco." Oh dear...