Christoper Hitchens. Rest in Peace. One of the most articulate people, always incisive, even when I disagreed with him.
I saw Hitchens speak at the New York Public Library, as part of their Live! series. Everyone retired to the garden afterwards, to take drinks.
I spoke with Hitchens briefly. He called Mother Theresa "a bitch". I criticized his diction and argued that bitch was the wrong epithet. I don't recall my exact argument, but he conceded my point. I was elated, given that I considered (and still consider) Hitchens one of the most eloquent orators of our generation. In deference to him and his passing, I have mulled my choice of language in this comment.
I am still grateful that I had the chance to engage this great polemicist.
That's actually an interesting anecdote, because it demonstrates a willingness to admit when he was wrong, something that is often uncommon among so-called "great thinkers" - especially when they're engaging with a member of the "ordinary public". (My apologies if you're actually quite extraordinary.)
Q: In the beginning of the talk you expressed antipathy towards deism in principle, predicated along this
particular interpretation of God as a supreme dictator and judge. Is that correct?
CHRISTOPHER HITCHENS: That would be correct, yes.
Q: Now, if I could play devil’s advocate for God for a moment. Could you appreciate a God who
watches us and our actions eagerly and with great interest because he created a world where everything
is permitted?
CHRISTOPHER HITCHENS: Yes, I can picture it, but I’m not without horror.
(laughter)
]
I saw Hitchens speak at the New York Public Library, as part of their Live! series. Everyone retired to the garden afterwards, to take drinks.
I spoke with Hitchens briefly. He called Mother Theresa "a bitch". I criticized his diction and argued that bitch was the wrong epithet. I don't recall my exact argument, but he conceded my point. I was elated, given that I considered (and still consider) Hitchens one of the most eloquent orators of our generation. In deference to him and his passing, I have mulled my choice of language in this comment.
I am still grateful that I had the chance to engage this great polemicist.