Poet, song writer, novelist, and essayist, writing in Scots and English. Pseudonyms:
“The Ettrick Shepherd,” “J. H.” Born c. 1770; Church at Ettrick records baptism date
as 9 December 1770. Son of a shepherd, Hogg also worked as a shepherd from 1790 to
1800. Travelled to Edinburgh in 1810 to establish writing career. First collection
of poetry, *Scottish Pastorals*, published in 1801. Well connected with many literary
figures, including Sir Walter Scott, William Wordsworth, and Allan Cunningham. Published
novels include *The Brownie of Bodsbeck and Other Tales* (1818) and *The Private Memoirs
and Confessions of a Justified Sinner* (1824). Contributor to *Blackwood’s Edinburgh
Magazine* and *Fraser’s Magazine*. Biographical information: *ODNB*. (KF, SCM)