15 OCTOBER 1977, Page 18

Sir, As one who attempts to follow the vagaries of

modern art — bricks and all — as best he can, I remain rather puzzled by your critic's remarks on Ian Hamilton Finlay's exhibition at the Serpentine Gallery, which I recently saw. Is the reference to Ossian meant to convey that the artist has invented the texts that accompany his work, as Ossian invented antique poetry? Or it may be that Mr McEwen fears the effect in Europe will be as unfortunate as that of Ossian? Judging from the German reaction he may well be right, of course, but Ossian's was a romantic approach whereas Finlay's is said to be classical, which I should have thought would gladden the heart of any thoughtful spectator?

J.F. Hendry 17 Ruskin Terrace.

Glasgow