Great story Jason, and I've done quite a few on Harper Lee over the years. Monroeville lies only 100 miles west of my home in Ashford, AL, and I will be over there in September for a book signing. Always a treat to visit that town.
You are right, she was a superstar, a must-read if you grew up here during the 1960's through the 1980's while she was still alive and had friends that would speak of her. While private she was not a recluse, not a Howard Hughes character.
So glad you touched on the generosity of Michael and Joy Brown, without them her path would have been completely different. Maybe there would have never been a path. She could have ended up like John Kennedy Toole.
Also it is wonderful that you mentioned Tay Hohoff, her editor. Hohoff was an old school guy, much like Maxwell Perkins at Scribner's that had a HUGE influence on the literary world. The recent movie GENIUS details the life of Perkins and his influence on Thomas Wolfe.
The story of Harper Lee just reinforces that fact that in the world of art, nothing happens in a vacuum.
You're right about that. To think what the world might have missed without that generous Christmas present. What we might have missed if Lee's ideas and thoughts hadn't been sculpted a gifted editor.
I remember reading a tremendous book about Perkins decades ago. I was glued to that book as it revealed his work with Hemingway, Wolfe and one other. I was fascinated with those authors and Perkins dedication to their very different styles and needs. I believe Wolfe would deliver Boxes of his writing, a monumental editing challenge. I'll hope to find "Genius".
You will thoroughly enjoy the movie Robert. Jude Law plays the lead with all the energy Wolfe must have brought to life. Thanks again Jason for a wonderful article.
Your devotional theme of sanctification by way of God’s editorial hand spoke to me. I am aware of the blessings and editorial work He has done in my life, but also aware that there is still work to do. It reminds me of the Methodist tradition of cooperating with God so that we may continue to move forward towards His perfection. Thanks for sharing Harper Lee’s story as a way of illustrating your point. May God continue to bless your work.
One of my Top 10 favorite books, and I also had the pleasure of teaching it to my 10th grade classes in the 90’s. It’s probably expunged from the curriculum in my former district, now. 🫤
Great story Jason, and I've done quite a few on Harper Lee over the years. Monroeville lies only 100 miles west of my home in Ashford, AL, and I will be over there in September for a book signing. Always a treat to visit that town.
You are right, she was a superstar, a must-read if you grew up here during the 1960's through the 1980's while she was still alive and had friends that would speak of her. While private she was not a recluse, not a Howard Hughes character.
So glad you touched on the generosity of Michael and Joy Brown, without them her path would have been completely different. Maybe there would have never been a path. She could have ended up like John Kennedy Toole.
Also it is wonderful that you mentioned Tay Hohoff, her editor. Hohoff was an old school guy, much like Maxwell Perkins at Scribner's that had a HUGE influence on the literary world. The recent movie GENIUS details the life of Perkins and his influence on Thomas Wolfe.
The story of Harper Lee just reinforces that fact that in the world of art, nothing happens in a vacuum.
You're right about that. To think what the world might have missed without that generous Christmas present. What we might have missed if Lee's ideas and thoughts hadn't been sculpted a gifted editor.
I remember reading a tremendous book about Perkins decades ago. I was glued to that book as it revealed his work with Hemingway, Wolfe and one other. I was fascinated with those authors and Perkins dedication to their very different styles and needs. I believe Wolfe would deliver Boxes of his writing, a monumental editing challenge. I'll hope to find "Genius".
You will thoroughly enjoy the movie Robert. Jude Law plays the lead with all the energy Wolfe must have brought to life. Thanks again Jason for a wonderful article.
Thank you, sir.
Hi Jason,
Your devotional theme of sanctification by way of God’s editorial hand spoke to me. I am aware of the blessings and editorial work He has done in my life, but also aware that there is still work to do. It reminds me of the Methodist tradition of cooperating with God so that we may continue to move forward towards His perfection. Thanks for sharing Harper Lee’s story as a way of illustrating your point. May God continue to bless your work.
Gary Creamer
Didn't know Lee and Capote knew each other that well!
It seems an unlikely duo.
A very poignant reminder of what this life is all about.
Interesting how the book came about; now I want to read it. (My mom omitted it from my homeschool curriculum as she wasn't impressed by it.)
The thought that God wants to use our traits for him, and not give us completely new ones, is comforting.
I recommend the book AND the movie which is something you won't hear from me often.
One of my Top 10 favorite books, and I also had the pleasure of teaching it to my 10th grade classes in the 90’s. It’s probably expunged from the curriculum in my former district, now. 🫤