He was my favorite living author. Blood Meridian is a modern masterpiece. I think it will stand the test of time and will be read for generations, more so than some of his other work. I think his entire collection is wonderful, but I think that one in particular will still be read 100 years from now (if there is a ‘we’ to be reading thing 100 years from now).
Either way, you will be missed and thank you for staying with it even when you were destitute.
I’m so thankful he didn’t become posthumously famous but instead passed away being viewed as a modern master.
In my 30s, I came across Cormac’s writing and was immediately drawn to his style. The Road, in particular, resonated with me after just having my son. Someone recommended it to me, and it just so happened to be shortly after my son was born, and I think it had a significant impact on the way I parent and interact with my children.
I’ve had Blood Meridian on my Kindle for a while now, but haven’t had the chance to read it yet. After hearing this news, I think I’ll make it my next read.
Either way, you will be missed and thank you for staying with it even when you were destitute.
Well. Said.
That’s quite beautiful. They are, “each the other’s world entire.” Although, I hope you say, “I love you” a bit more than pops did in The Road, lol.
Do you mean that it helped you cope with the flipside of joy and fear that comes with having a child?
I highly encourage it! I’m going to read All the Pretty Horses after hearing this news. Remember these final days before you meet one of the greatest literary characters I’ve ever encountered: The Judge.
Warning: It’s a difficult book. Thankfully, I read it with a class that kept me honest. Don’t feel any shame if you want to use something like LitCharts. You can use it without paying. That’s how I am, at least. When I try reading a dense classic and it turns into a slog, if I get frustrated I’ll just fall off.
However, I think its themes are important today and the questions it asks of the reader can lead to some serious growth and reflection.
Do you mean that it helped you cope with the flipside of joy and fear that comes with having a child?
I never thought about it that way, but yeah, I think you hit the nail on the head. It definitely helped me cope with the mix of emotions that come with being a parent. It taught me the importance of being a selfless and supportive provider for my child, and the challenges that come with making tough decisions for their well-being. Overall, it showed me what it truly means to be a father.
And thanks for the heads up! I’ve been really into PKD lately, but after hearing this news, I might need to work my way back through McCarthy. I haven’t heard of LitCharts before, but I might have to give it a try. I tried reading Gravity’s Rainbow and basically gave up. This might’ve saved me.
Well said. Not enough geniuses of their field are recognized before their death or other tragedy. RIP Mr. McCarthy.
