Studs Terkel Dies at 96

Come Tuesday, we measure how far we've come. Come Tuesday, we check our progress in this weird experiment in egalitarianism mixed with brutality; in lofty ideals and base metals; this social pact promising freedom and justice that just needs centuries of amendments to be written to it -- not in ink but in blood, sweat and tears. We'll learn something, about ourselves and each other, on Tuesday.

Studs Terkel won't live to see it. But you better believe he loved watching this much. I have no doubt that the great American believer died happy, anticipating what might come Tuesday.

More on Studs later, but for now: Safe passage, brother. And as you always said: Take it easy -- but take it.

Comments

[Freesia2]

02:52 AM on 11/01/2008

What a grand old soul he was. The stories he collected in telling the story of everything from the Good War to the Great Depression are invaluable. He kept the American experience alive for us. I only wish we could have kept him so....at least until Tuesday. What a rip that a man who preserved history for us came just that close to seeing one of its biggest moments.

Walk with the angels Studs. Why do I have the feeling you'll be pulling out a pen and interviewing them about their good old days in heaven?

[KickerBoard]

01:55 AM on 11/01/2008

An American legend with a global intellectual legacy. Studs was too much truth and too much empathy for the MSM to handle. May he rest in peace.

[cheforacle]

10:35 PM on 10/31/2008

Studs Terkel, a true American original. I was sad to hear he died but when you think of the type of life he lived, you just have to smile. He seemed to enjoy his experiences so much and appreciate the richness of our country without losing a sense of proportion about its problems.