The author no doubt lived much of this paradox. His death by suicide at age forty-six eerily reminds us of the self-destructive characters who populate his fictions. Readers who have spent time grappling with these books may be shocked by the specific details of his passing, but the fact that he wrestled with personal demons will come as no surprise to them. His books are almost painfully honest in this regard.
Although Infinite Jest will stand out as his most significant work, Wallace was also a master of smaller forms. He didn't need a thousand pages to work his magic. His short stories are potent and wicked in their portrayals. Wallace also was an essayist and journalist of note, and brought a fresh perspective to a range of topics, from tennis to politics, food to literary criticism.
Critics will continue to debate his writings for a long time to come. Wallace’s books are multi-layered and complex, and not easily susceptible to pigeonholing. As such, they almost demand heated discussion. But I am confident that this author’s work will stand the test of time. Alas poor David Wallace, a fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy, you will be greatly missed.
Article comments
1 - Mark Saleski
dang, i woke up this morning to hear this news. really sad.
i've loved his essays. he did one about going on a cruise ship that was fall-off-the-couch funny.
2 - redsock
Ted: Thank you for this - it's the best thing I've read since getting the news last night. You really nailed it re IJ (hands down my favorite book ever) and his writing style.
3 - Lisa Solod Warren
I know, I was really stunned to read of his death, far too young. I seemed like he had it all, all that any writer would want-- a really enviable career. But obviously he had some huge demons. Tragic. Thanks for the lovely eulogy.
4 - Gordon Hauptfleisch
Shocking news indeed, but thanks for a great tribute.