Today brought surprising and sad news. John Updike died. Updike is one of my "Big Three" (the others are Larry McMurtry and Anne Tyler). Although it was delusional, I let myself think that he would go on forever. I just finished reading Roger's Version, a novel he wrote back in 1986. The most expensive book I own is a Franklin Library copy of Rabbit Run. Yes, I'm babbling. The news doesn't want to sink in. I felt exactly the same way when Rabbit Angstrom died at the end of Rabbit At Rest. I'm lucky that Updike was so prolific -- there's tens of volumes of his -- fiction, nonfiction and poetry -- that I haven't read yet.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
John Updike
Today brought surprising and sad news. John Updike died. Updike is one of my "Big Three" (the others are Larry McMurtry and Anne Tyler). Although it was delusional, I let myself think that he would go on forever. I just finished reading Roger's Version, a novel he wrote back in 1986. The most expensive book I own is a Franklin Library copy of Rabbit Run. Yes, I'm babbling. The news doesn't want to sink in. I felt exactly the same way when Rabbit Angstrom died at the end of Rabbit At Rest. I'm lucky that Updike was so prolific -- there's tens of volumes of his -- fiction, nonfiction and poetry -- that I haven't read yet.
Funny, Updike has been on the scene for so long, I guess (like you) I thought he was immortal. I haven't read that much of his work, but he still dominated American literature.
ReplyDeleteI don't think I've ever read any Updike. Nor McMurtry, but I have read Anne Tyler. I just might have to add something to the tbr for this year.
ReplyDeleteI have to admit I have only read one essay by Updike but I was still sad to hear of his passing. I had the chance to see him interviewed on Charlie Rose a couple of times and he seemed like a good old-fashioned gentlemen which made me feel fond of him.
ReplyDeleteI was equally shocked - had no idea the man was ill. I'll miss the fun of looking forward to a new book of his every year. He was very consistent that way.
ReplyDeleteMcMurtry is in my top three as well. I have all of the Rabbit series by Updike, but haven't read them yet. Should do that now, especially.
ReplyDeleteI have, however, tagged you for a meme. ;)