25 Comments
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Alexander Sorondo's avatar

goddam. that was incredible.

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Evan Marc Katz's avatar

Inspired me to read your book.

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Charlie Becker's avatar

Same. Just bought the book.

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Wim's avatar

Truly a great essay. I really enjoyed Glass Century and never would have guessed that it was inspired by events in your life.

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Moravagine's avatar

This was a great piece of work.

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Dr. Nicole Mirkin's avatar

This is devastating in the quiet way. The “counter-life” idea lands because it’s not framed as scandal, it’s framed as architecture. The way secrecy becomes inheritance, and also a kind of training, felt painfully true.

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Michael Preedy's avatar

Settled down last night for a little reading. Made the mistake of thinking On the Beach would be light enough for a quick read. Found myself absorbed and moved! Decided on another read this morning and it was even more enjoyable. Thanks, Ross.

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Chris Jesu Lee's avatar

Beautifully written, Ross

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Gabriel Kahane's avatar

What a gorgeous piece, Ross. Wish I could have met your dad.

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Stephen G. Adubato's avatar

This is awesome. I love hearing the back story

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Jerry's avatar

Amazing handling of this complex personal story! I’ve been considering Glass Century ever since discovering TMR and the works it publishes. Upon reading this, I just placed the order.

My own father died when I was 28; similar circumstances, but he and I had a very different relationship than the one you experienced with yours, it seems. That image of you sobbing at the beach, cradling a box of ashes speaks volumes. I’m starting to choke just typing this…

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David A. Westbrook's avatar

Ross, as a writer I found this very very good, worthy of any one of your heroes. As a friend, and as a father, I found it absolutely wrenching. For now, and you don't need to hear it but it does not hurt, you really do have the gift of turning life into art. Beyond that, kudos and strength.

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Connor Lundrigan's avatar

Incredible writing

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Unset's avatar

Very nice tribute. But what about your half siblings? You have always been content to leave that alone?

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jen's avatar

W O W .

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Richard Dorset's avatar

You’re a beautiful writer Ross. I loved Glass Century; loved the plot and loved the characters. Before you divulged here that the story was based on true events, I picked up what I initially thought were coincidences. I’m glad your life story to this point has been so interesting that it became the foundation of an outstanding novel. I am eagerly awaiting your next opus

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Scott McConnell's avatar

That was amazingly well done.

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