Christopher Hitchens passed away yesterday after a long struggle with esophageal cancer. He was one of the most prolific writers that Britain has produced who moved to the USA in the early eighties. He has upset various establishment figures with his writings, calling Henry Kissinger a war criminal, he called Mother Teresa "The Ghoul of Calcutta" and spared no thought for causing offence. Though this might seem like some sort of complaint about the life of Christopher Hitchens it is actually the opposite. Hitchens was an inspiration to many; he spoke his mind whenever he was asked for his thoughts and never backed down from a debate or left a question unanswered. There are numerous videos on YouTube of his witty and sharp putdowns (known as Hitchslaps) to enjoy, and these videos will no doubt live on to inspire many long after his passing. Anyway, over this holiday season I plan to spend some time sitting back and reading Hitch 22 whilst sipping on a Johnny Walker Black! Christopher Hitchens: 13 April 1949 – 15 December 2011
I was only watching a YouTube video of him recently. Sadly, I will learn more about him after his passing. I have concentrated on the work of Richard Dawkins, only because he appeared on my horizon earlier. I admire forthright atheists, their attitudes have helped to shape many peoples' ideas. RIP Mr. Hitchens
I heard this yesterday on one of the BBC news programs. Interestingly, they played one of his last interviews. I didn't always agree with his views, but did always enjoy his debating skills and style. I also greatly enjoyed his writings, many of which impacted my own thinking. We were of the same generation and I found it easy to relate with his development. Funnily enough Kuya, I spent some time yesterday reviewing the video clips I want to re-visit and also searched my loft looking for some of the books etc that I kept. I actually didn't manage to unearth them, but luckily have my Kindle and am sure to find what I want from Amazon.
