Around 25 years ago, I met Larry Brown. My pal and great bookseller, Richard Howarth, had mentioned to me that he had met a great reader though his store (the incomparably fine Square Books), who wanted to write. Soon there after, he introduced me to Larry Brown.
At a party on a front porch in Belhaven, one block from Ms. Welty’s house, I met and talked books with Larry. Common reading tastes was the immediate doorway to begin our friendship. Over the years, we shared many books together, our fondness for authors as diverse as Louis L’Amour to Cormac McCarthy. We were reading buddies.
A bookseller’s relationship with an author can grow to be very special over time using books and reading as a bridge. The labor of these two professions can emerge into a natural bond tied together through love and deep friendship.
As I think about Larry’s passing on this anniversary of his death, I feel the loss of this short writing life. No more Larry books to read or book talk to be had.
However, so very fondly I reflect on Larry and Richard and value knowing both and understanding the meaning and fullness of a bond through books.
Click here to see all of “Lemuria Reads Mississippians.”
Mississippians is available now. Purchase a copy online or call the bookstore 601/800.366.7619.
Neil White will be signing copies of Mississippians Friday, November 26th.
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