He was at this stage in favour of some form of home rule for Scotland within the United Kingdom but grew to support Scottish independence instead.
Gillies, encouraged by Murdoch, also became aware of the developments in the politics of Ireland becoming an ardent supporter of Sinn Féin, associating with prominent figures such as Art O'Brien who would become the head of the Irish Self Determination League.
Gillies formed a friendship with Ruairidh Erskine of Mar contributing articles to his publications, Guth na Bliadhna (Voice of the Year) and Alba.
Gillies wanted the SNL to reflect the revolutionary aims of the Irish nationalists by then engaged in a war of independence with the British state.
Angus Clark, one of Gillies' closest friends wrote on hearing of his death, "he has left an example of noble effort, great faith and true devotion to his country."