Bad News but Not Unexpected

[Jackalope]

I have to admit that I've never read any of his books. Like Shell, I generally don't read books about atheism - as she said, there's really not much to say. I've read far more about religion and apologetics. Looks like I need to add some of Hitchen's stuff to my reading list.

Here's a thought. As a tribute, how about we compile a list of his best work for the benefit of those who haven't read them yet? (And by "we", I really mean those of you who have read his stuff.)

[thesummerqueen]

I love his writing but I'm going to miss his speaking most. A member who stayed here briefly once described it as "soothing and deliberate" and it was sure that if someone posted something of his from a debate or speech I was going to smile and feel better after I had heard it.

Raising a glass tonight for sure.

[Jackalope]

I'm tipping a bottle of Black Butte Porter (1) in his honor.


(1) ... while simultaneously pitying those of you who don't live in Deschutes Brewery's distribution range.

[Autumnlicious]

I, too, just finished reading aloud his final column and am now toking one in memory of the combative, stubborn atheist who could admit he was wrong.

And I do feel a sense of loss, as confusing as that may be for a reader of only one of his books and less than a handful of his columns.

[Shell B]

And I do feel a sense of loss, as confusing as that may be for a reader of only one of his books and less than a handful of his columns.

Eh, it's natural. I was worried for days when Stephen King got hit by that truck and I cried when Dimebag was killed. You can connect enough with a person's work to feel a sense of loss when they are gone. In a way, that is what an artist of any kind's contribution is to the world. What is the sense of writing anything if someone does not connect to it or learn from it? At any rate, I'm sorry to everyone who felt a connection to him. It's a damn shame.

[Erinome]

I have to admit that I've never read any of his books. Like Shell, I generally don't read books about atheism - as she said, there's really not much to say. I've read far more about religion and apologetics. Looks like I need to add some of Hitchen's stuff to my reading list.

Here's a thought. As a tribute, how about we compile a list of his best work for the benefit of those who haven't read them yet? (And by "we", I really mean those of you who have read his stuff.)

The first one I read was "The Missionary Position". It blew my fucking mind. I had pretty much been a Catholic apatheist for years, and it sparked my interest. I'll never forget nearly shatting myself while reading it. My dear, sweet grandmother just adores Mother Theresa, so I had come to have some sort of warm, fuzzy feelings towards her, as well. It was a springboard for my resurgence of interest in religion.

The one about Thomas Jefferson is provocative and inspiring, especially if you're into history. His take on Jefferson is the best, most entertaining one, IMO.

"Love, Poverty, and War" is essential.

"The Portable Atheist" - Don't miss it.

And of course, "God is Not Great". I thought it was more insightful, and more inspired that Richard Dawkins "The God Delusion", but I loved this collaboration between the two, along with Sam Harris and Daniel Dennett:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DKhc1pcDFM

I was entertained with Christopher Hitchens's constant interruptions, while I've read reviews from others with whom it annoyed.

[Jackalope]

I cried when Dimebag was killed.

Side note - an old friend of mine (Pat Lachman) was in Damageplan and on stage with Darrell when he was killed. I haven't seen Pat in a lot of years, but he and my brother used to jam back in the mid-late 80's. He was an insanely talented guitarist at 15 years old.

[houseofcantor]

And I do feel a sense of loss, as confusing as that may be for a reader of only one of his books and less than a handful of his columns.

Eh, it's natural. I was worried for days when Stephen King got hit by that truck and I cried when Dimebag was killed. You can connect enough with a person's work to feel a sense of loss when they are gone. In a way, that is what an artist of any kind's contribution is to the world. What is the sense of writing anything if someone does not connect to it or learn from it? At any rate, I'm sorry to everyone who felt a connection to him. It's a damn shame.

Thank you for saying these words. Shell says what I would, if I were standard issue. I have no loss, for Hitch is where he always was. Heart and mind.

Hitch was quality fucking human being. Doesn't seem to be much of that going around, but I'm going to maintain PMA.

[TheAtheistTroll]

Good night sweet prince

[Ace Otana]

Real loss. A painful one.

Guess all the bad habits finally got him. He drank and smoked a lot.