I just saw the news online that one of the GIANTS in mystery fiction has passed away. Robert B. Parker, 77, author of the much loved "Spenser" series, plus many other fiction and academic works.
I don't think any writer influenced me more than Parker did. Much of the work I did for my MA was on mystery fiction. I read early essays by Parker, I wolfed down every Spenser novel, I referenced or quoted Parker/Spenser more than any other source.
I studied his novels and learned a lot about writing from them. The settings were great, the pace was just right and the characters... oooh... the characters: Spenser, of course, and Hawk! and Tony Marcus and all the recurring characters.
I will truly miss being able to run out to buy the latest Spenser release and then curling up in bed with a good mystery.
Thank you Robert B. Parker for all the stories and enjoyment. You shall be missed by many.
i hate to say it but i have not read any of his work...
ReplyDeletebut i am certain he will be missed.