As 2024 is quickly coming to a close this writer wanted to acknowledge the legacies of some notable authors who passed on.

Although these beloved authors are no longer with us, their literary contributions endure as exemplary illustrations of the transformative power of literature. They inspire us, cultivate empathy, and expand our viewpoints. The fiction and nonfiction works presented here have made a lasting impact on both our hearts and society at large.

Joan Acocella: A prominent cultural critic, well-known to any devoted reader of The New Yorker or the New York Review of Books, skillfully combined intellectual rigor with an approachable style in her writing.

Iris Apfel: Until her passing at the age of 102, this renowned style and fashion icon consistently motivated us to embrace life in vibrant, rich, and unapologetic hues.

Paul Auster: Engaging with the works of Paul Auster is akin to entering a complex literary maze, where each unexpected turn draws you further into a realm that is simultaneously enigmatic, intellectual, and deeply reflective of the human experience.

Maryse Conde‘: A highly esteemed author and playwright within the Francophone literary community, this Guadeloupean, who has been a finalist for the Booker Prize multiple times, received the notable yet contentious “alternative” Nobel Prize in 2018.

Nikki Giovanni: This renowned poet and activist advocated for Black identity and the celebration of Black joy through a courageous and unreserved voice, skillfully combining incisive humor with lyrical grace.

Daniel Kahneman: This psychologist, awarded the Nobel Prize, is often referred to as the pioneer of behavioral economics. He transformed our comprehension of the human psyche through his in-depth investigation of inherent biases, contrasting the quick, instinctual “fast” brain with the methodical, reflective “slow” brain.

Alice Munro: Recognized as Canada’s sole Nobel Prize winner in literature, she has been celebrated as a preeminent figure in the realm of contemporary short stories. Following her passing, admirers were taken aback by disclosures indicating that she had overlooked her husband’s sexual abuse of their daughter.

Edna O’Brien: This pioneering Irish writer transformed contemporary Irish literature through her bold examination of female sexuality and identity, all while navigating the limitations imposed by Irish society.

Dr. Ruth: This therapist emerged as a prominent figure by providing accessible and straightforward advice on sex and relationships. In the later stages of her career, she focused on tackling the epidemic of loneliness in our society.

Vernor Vinge: This is an opportune moment to familiarize oneself with this acclaimed science fiction author and forward-thinking computer scientist, renowned for his insightful examination of virtual reality and the Singularity—the pivotal point at which artificial intelligence exceeds human intelligence.

Gone but not forgotten. Thank you for your words and works that inspire us and motivate us to keep walking the paths of the creative minds that we are blessed to have.

Thank you so much for your continued support and readership. Until next year…Blessings and Peace!

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