THE cultural critic and Palestinian advocate Edward Said died last September aged 67. But as this posthumous collection of his essays shows, he was keenly engaged with Middle Eastern politics to the end.

What really concerns him here is the US's influence over the Israel-Palestine question. He highlights the US's links to Israel through economic, military and intelligence aid, and weapons.

As well as highlighting problems, he also proposes a solution to the situation.

His arguments could almost sound simplistic but for its clear-sighted, dignified determination, which kept humanity at heart.

Katherine Haddon