A glorious life
December 15, 2011Death is so often a time of sadness and reflection. But, today, with news of the passing of George Whitman, I am mostly filled with a sense of awe and respect. George died at the age of 98. He lived one of the most colourful lives of the past century. He and the bookstore he founded profoundly influenced tens of thousands of people. He knew soaring love and grand adventure. He died with his wonderful daughter by his side.
What more can you ask of life? George Whitman was a great man and lived a great life. I am better for having known him. Thank you, George.
George Whitman, December 12, 1913 – December 14, 2011.
← Gold Medal My Students Are Awesome →4 Responses to A glorious life
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I also loved your book, read it a few years ago. Thanks for it, Jeremy! Any idea if a full-on biography of George is in the works?
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HyeLynn says:
I’ve just heard about his death. I always dreamed about visiting Shakespeare and company since I read Jeremy’s book. At last my dream came true last year. I visited the book store during my trip. I might have seen him. I already miss the place.
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Avril Collier says:
I happened across your Books, Baguettes and Bedbugs by pure chance. What a lucky find! But how sad I am to discover that I have lost the chance to meet George by just a few months…. Shakespeare and Company, where have you been all my life?! Your book is now on my Books to Keep shelf, and a visit to the bookstore on the To Do list (very soon!). Thank you for providing so much enjoyment with your book.
Hello jeremy, having visited Shakespeare and Company while in Paris during Christmas 2005, and spending three all too short hours there, there was something about that store that stayed with me. Two years later, back home in Southern California, I came across your wonderful book, “Time Was Soft There,” I promply bought it, put in my pile of books to read, of course did not, until I read about George Whitman’s passing, found your book and could not put it down. Great work by you and a joy to read! Thank you!