Interesting, overlooked, and significant obituaries from around the world, as they happen, emphasizing the positive achievements of those who have died. Member, Society of Professional Obituary Writers.
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Monday, August 31, 2015
Sunday, August 30, 2015
Wes Craven
Film director, writer, producer, and actor; a master of horror; creator of the "Nightmare on Elm Street" and "Scream" franchises -- via the Hollywood Reporter. A genius of the horror genre, Craven created some of the most shocking and unforgettable films in recent American history, starting with the graphically violent, transgressive, and nihilistic "Last House on the Left" in 1971(meant in part as an homage to Bergman's "The Virgin Spring"). Besides, his lucrative franchises, he explored more taboos with lesser-regarded films such as "The Hills Have Eyes," "The Serpent and the Rainbow," and "The People Under the Stairs."
Oliver Sacks
Neurologist and author -- via the New York Times. Sacks was a profoundly gifted writer, who could convey information and truth concerning subjects that normally defy description. Issues of mental function, perception, cognition, inheirited traits, twins, music and the brain, memory -- all these topics were illuminated with a clear and engaging style. He humanizes these medical topics by telling us abut them through stories about the people changed or challenged by them.
I find it odd that the obit should mention some objections to his writing as exploiting his patients. I think he bent over backwards to respect them and convey their experience to us -- one of the most difficult and important tasks a writer can do. Just goes to show you can't please everyone -- nor should you try.
I find it odd that the obit should mention some objections to his writing as exploiting his patients. I think he bent over backwards to respect them and convey their experience to us -- one of the most difficult and important tasks a writer can do. Just goes to show you can't please everyone -- nor should you try.
Friday, August 28, 2015
Louis Paul
Singer, guitarist; co-founder of Memphis '60s garage-band legend the Guilloteens -- via the Memphis Commercial Appeal.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Amelia Boynton Robinson
Civil rights activist -- via the Washington Post. Part of the infamous Bloody Sunday march of March 7, 1965, Robinson was severely beaten and the picture below illustrated the plight of the struggle for freedom.
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