The Funniest Times News of a Celebrity’s Death Was Greatly Exaggerated
Sometimes, it pays to be cautious
Listen, the news business is tough. Yes, fact-checking is important, but when there’s a breaking story, there’s not always time to get it straight before those bastards at Insert Competing Publisher get the scoop. Sometimes, though, it pays to be cautious, at least if you don’t want some very powerful enemies because you forced them to read about their own deaths.
Mark Twain
Of course, preeminent American humorist Mark Twain most famously announced that “reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated,” but he actually had to do it twice. The first time, his cousin’s illness resulted in a game of telephone that led to his notorious quip, but 10 years later, after The New York Times reported that his boat was lost at sea, he wrote an article for the same newspaper investigating his own possible death. At least, after both mistakes, we got some great writing out of it.
Gabriel García Márquez
Unfortunately, we got some rather bad writing out of a Peruvian newspaper’s announcement of the death of author Gabriel García Márquez in 2000 after he’d actually only been diagnosed with cancer. Some kind of mix-up resulted in a “farewell poem” supposedly written by Márquez being published alongside the announcement, which seemed to upset Márquez more than the announcement itself. “What could kill me is someone thinking I wrote such a corny thing,” he said. It ended up being pneumonia, but he had a point.
Alice CooperUnlike most such mistakes, Melody Maker knew exactly what they were doing when they published a satirical obituary of Alice Cooper in 1973. They were talking about the death of his career, but so many fans reached out to them in confused anguish that they had to publish a retraction, quoting the man himself as saying, “I lost $4,000 … at blackjack last night. I could have died!” and “Am I alive? Well, I’m alive and drunk as usual.”
Ernest Hemingway
To be fair, it wasn’t that big of a leap to assume that Hemingway had died in a plane crash in Africa in 1954. He was hurt very badly, and he’d actually been involved in two plane crashes, and it’s not like the mid-1950s were a great time for surviving such incidents. But survive, he did, and he was so amused by his own obituaries that he collected them in a scrapbook to read every morning over a glass of champagne. We like Twitter and cold brew, but you do you, Ernie.
Like, All of CNN’s Pre-Written Obituaries
As morbid as it might seem, a lot of famous people’s obituaries are written ahead of time. People are on deadlines, and you know, sometimes the writing’s on the wall, so it might as well be in the CMS. That practice came back to bite CNN in 2003, however, when trolls found out they could access the news organization’s stockpile of unpublished obituaries, which didn’t remain unpublished for long. The best part is that they appeared to be placeholders full of wildly inaccurate filler, mostly based on the obituary of the Queen Mother, who had died the previous year. For example, former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney was described as “the U.K.’s favorite grandmother.” Cheney has been called a lot of things, but definitely never that.
This is a familiar debate for Hemingway scholars and us amateur scholars. I added a few photos. You be the judge.
Letters from Our Readers
Readers respond to Adam Gopnik’s piece about Lillian Ross’s Profile of Ernest Hemingway and Burkhard Bilger’s article about high-school marching bands.
Ernest Response
As the current custodian of the letters from Ernest Hemingway to Lillian Ross, I’d like to add a bit of context to Adam Gopnik’s recent piece about Ross’s Profile of the novelist (A Critic at Large, February 17th & 24th). Immediately after leaving Ross in New York, Hemingway wrote to her from the S.S. Île de France, “And you can write any god-damn thing you want except we must avoid lible and hurting people and get the names right”—instructions Ross underlined. When Ross sent Hemingway the Profile proofs, asking for his “corrections and changes” prior to publication (now a bygone practice), he demurred: “I will say nothing about the piece because according to my code if you change, alter or correct then you authorize a piece. Hope I don’t talk that way; but if that is how it sounds to you then you have a perfect right to write it that way.” He did ask her to “delete any reference to my mother,” gave vague answers to her questions about a scar and the coat of arms on his suitcase, and thanked her for “laying off the war and all the things you could have written that people don’t know.”
In a subsequent letter, after Hemingway reread the proofs, he wrote to Ross, “It is a good, funny, well intentioned, well inventioned piece,” and predicted, “Piece will make me many, many enemies,” adding, “But I guess an enemy is not nearly as dangerous, basically, as a friend.” In quoting this, Gopnik left out “well inventioned”—Hemingway’s clear nod to the creative slant that he perceived in Ross’s Profile—as well as his perhaps pointed evaluation of the relative dangers from friends and from enemies.
Sarah Funke Butler Providence, R.I.
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Letters should be sent with the writer’s name, address, and daytime phone number via e-mail to themail@newyorker.com. Letters may be edited for length and clarity, and may be published in any medium. We regret that owing to the volume of correspondence we cannot reply to every letter.
HAVANA, Cuba, Jun 10 (ACN) Promoting the life and work of U.S. writer and journalist Ernest Hemingway based on recent research is the main goal of the 20th International Colloquium named after the 1954 Literature Nobel prizewinner, to be held on June 25 to 28 in Havana.
According to Isbel Ferreiro Garit, deputy director of the Finca Vigia Museum, the event also intends to highlight several commemorations related to the author of The Old Man and the Sea, among them the 90th anniversary of the first publication of the novel Green Hills of Africa (1935), the 85th anniversary of For Whom the Bell Tolls (1940) and the 65th anniversary of the conclusion of A Moveable Feast (1960), as well as the important meeting he held 65 years ago with Fidel Castro Ruz.
The event will feature the presentation of research works made by scholars, academicians, university professors, and Cuban and foreign writers―including eight papers prepared by participants from Japan, Argentina, Canada and the United States―in addition to a digital version of the novel The Sun Also Rises and La Habana de Hemingway y otros relatos, by the renowned Cuban journalist and essayist Ciro Bianchi Ross.
Visits to sites where the famous American novelist left his mark, such as the restaurant Terraza de Cojimar, the Club Nautico, the bars El Floridita and Sloppy Joe’s, and Finca Vigía―his Cuban home―will also be part of the program.
Ernest Hemingway vs. John Steinbeck: Which Literary Titan Captured the American Spirit Best? (Picture Credit – IMDB)
American literature is rich with voices that define its identity, but few stand as tall as Ernest Hemingwayand John Steinbeck. These literary giants, writing in the same era yet with vastly different styles, offered distinct portraits of the American experience. Hemingway’s sharp, minimalistic prose highlighted personal struggle and existential questions, while Steinbeck’s sweeping narratives shed light on the collective hardships of working-class Americans. Which of these titans best captured the true American spirit? Their works, themes, and legacies hold the answer.
Hemingway’s America: Grit, Isolation, and the Individual
Ernest Hemingway’s writing was defined by brevity, masculinity, and an unwavering focus on the individual. His “iceberg theory” of storytelling, where much of the meaning lay beneath the surface, reflected a uniquely American form of resilience. Novels like ‘The Sun Also Rises’ and ‘A Farewell to Arms’ portrayed stoic, disillusioned protagonists navigating a world marred by war and loss. His characters were loners, often seeking purpose in adventure, love, or violence.
Hemingway’s America was one of action and consequence, where survival was won through courage and perseverance. His spare, declarative sentences mirrored the rugged individualism that has long been mythologized in American culture. His influence on American writing remains unparalleled, shaping generations of authors who sought to write with honesty and precision.
Steinbeck’s America: Compassion, Community, and Social Justice
John Steinbeck, in contrast, painted a broader canvas of American life. His works delved into the struggles of the working class, depicting their hardships with deep empathy. Novels like ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ and ‘Of Mice and Men’ presented raw, unfiltered accounts of economic despair and the resilience of human connection. His characters were not just individuals; they were part of a larger social fabric, often grappling with issues of injustice, poverty, and displacement.
Steinbeck’s prose was rich and descriptive, capturing the land and its people with poetic intensity. His belief in the dignity of the common man made him a champion of social realism in literature. Through his writing, he emphasized the interconnectedness of American life, reminding readers that the fate of one was tied to the fate of all.
Who Defined the American Spirit Best?
Choosing between Hemingway and Steinbeck is like choosing between solitude and solidarity. Hemingway embodied the rugged, individualistic spirit often associated with the American dream—the belief that one must carve out their destiny through sheer will. Steinbeck, on the other hand, captured the collective struggle, emphasizing that resilience comes not just from within, but from the strength of the community.
Both authors remain towering figures in American literature, shaping its themes and stylistic evolution. Hemingway’s crisp, unadorned prose and Steinbeck’s compassionate storytelling continue to inspire readers and writers alike. The answer to who best captured the American spirit may depend on what version of that spirit resonates most with each reader.
Ernest Hemingway and John Steinbeck presented contrasting yet equally vital facets of the American experience in their literary works: Hemingway, with narratives deeply rooted in individual resilience and stoicism, and Steinbeck, with stories focused on communal struggles and empathetic portrayals of hardship. These distinct perspectives are both essential for a comprehensive understanding of the nation’s rich and complex literary soul, capturing different aspects of American life and values.
GIRISH SHUKLAAUTHORA dedicated bibliophile with a love for psychology and mythology, I am the author of two captivating novels. End of Article
Hemingway vs. Callaghan – AMC+ & Acorn TV (14 April)
Series. A miniseries based on the true story of the friendship between Ernest Hemingway and Morley Callaghan in Toronto and Paris between 1923 and 1929.
Gordon Pinsent portrays the older Morley Callaghan and Maury Chaykin takes on the role of Max Perkins.
Dead Mail – AMC+ & Shudder (18 April)
Film (2024). On a desolate, Midwestern county road, a bound man crawls towards a remote postal box, managing to slide a blood-stained plea-for-help message into the slot before a panicking figure closes in behind him.
The note makes its way to the desk of Jasper, a seasoned ‘dead letter’ investigator at a 1980s midwestern post office.
As he begins to piece together the letter’s origins, it leads him down a violent, unforeseen path to a kidnapped keyboard engineer and his eccentric business associate. Watch the trailer.
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The Chelsea Detective Season 3 – AMC+ & Acorn TV (7 April)
The Chelsea Detective Season 3. Image: AMC+.
Series. The new season sees DI Max Arnold (Adrian Scarborough) and DS Layla Walsh (Vanessa Emme) delve once more into the darker side of Chelsea that lurks beneath its glossy façade.
Season 3 finds Max and Layla investigating the discovery of an ex-soldier’s body in an allotment, the brutal murder of an antiques dealer, and the mysterious case of a climate scientist found dead in a stolen car. But, while Max remains adept at solving crimes, things are far from straightforward at home.
Shadow of God – AMC+ & Shudder (11 April)
Film (2025). When several of his fellow Vatican exorcists are simultaneously killed, Father Mason Harper returns to his childhood home to spend time with childhood friend while he awaits orders from the Church.
Dave Bautista’s Ernest Hemingway Biopic Would Be “Dark and Mysterious”
Warner Bros.
Ernest Hemingway is often considered to be one of the greatest American novelists of all-time. His novels, including The Old Man and the Sea, A Farewell to Arms, and For Whom the Bell Tolls, are studied in schools and universities across the world. Bautista didn’t discuss his love for Hemingway’s work. Instead, he is fascinated by Ernest Hemingway’s elder years. “Later in his life, he was just dark, and it was mysterious, it was intriguing,” he said, continuing:
“I thought, ‘Man, this is a character. I could really just dive into this.’ And this would be the type of role that would get me in those conversations where they would really see me as a great actor. I still have that chip on my shoulder, wanting to prove that. And I haven’t been able to find that particular role or that particular character where I can prove that.”
Dave Bautista’s dream Ernest Hemingway biopic hasn’t been officially picked up by any studio. Before that dream comes true, Dave Bautista is still shifting between genres. He currently stars in Paul W.S. Anderson’s fantasy/western, In the Lost Lands, based on the novel by George R.R. Martin.
10 Nobel Prize-Winning Books That Deserve a Permanent Spot on Your Shelf
Nobel Prize-winning books represent the pinnacle of literary achievement, profoundly influencing both literature and historical understanding. The ten masterpieces highlighted showcase exceptional storytelling, exploration of profound themes, and an enduring cultural impact. These books are essential additions to any reader’s collection, promising unforgettable literary experiences that resonate across generations.
10 Nobel Prize-Winning Books That Deserve a Permanent Spot on Your Shelf (Picture Credit – Instagram)
There are books, and then there are Nobel Prize-winning books—timeless works of literature that have left an indelible mark on the world. These stories are more than just classics; they are masterpieces that continue to resonate across generations. If you’re looking to build a bookshelf that stands the test of time, these ten Nobel Prize-winning books should be at the top of your list. Each of these books offers powerful storytelling, deep themes, and an enduring impact, making them essential reads for any literature lover.
1. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
A breathtaking blend of history, mythology, and magical realism, ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ follows the multi-generational saga of the Buendía family in the fictional town of Macondo. Marquez’s prose is hypnotic, weaving a story filled with love, war, and destiny. This novel is a cornerstone of Latin American literature and an unforgettable journey into the surreal and the profound. With its intricate narrative and deeply emotional themes, it remains a must-read for those who appreciate literary depth and cultural richness.
One Hundred Years of Solitude (Picture Credit – Instagram)
2. The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway
This novella tells the poignant tale of an ageing fisherman, Santiago, who battles a giant marlin in the open sea. Hemingway’s stark yet poetic writing style captures themes of resilience, isolation, and the unyielding spirit of man. A short read, ‘The Old Man and the Sea’ is a literary gem that lingers in the mind long after the final page. Through its deceptively simple story, Hemingway explores the quiet dignity of struggle, making this book an essential addition to any bookshelf
Always a Fisherman
3. Blindness by José Saramago
In this dystopian masterpiece, an unexplained epidemic of blindness spreads through an unnamed city, reducing society to chaos. Saramago’s unique style—long, flowing sentences without quotation marks draws the reader into a nightmarish yet utterly gripping tale of survival and human nature. ‘Blindness’ is an exploration of morality, fear, and the fragility of civilization. It forces readers to confront deep questions about humanity, leadership, and the darkness that can arise when order collapses. This haunting novel remains one of the most compelling works of modern literature.
4. Beloved by Toni Morrison
A haunting exploration of slavery’s legacy, ‘Beloved’ follows Sethe, a formerly enslaved woman, as she grapples with the ghost of her lost daughter. Through lyrical and emotionally charged prose, Morrison delves into the weight of history, memory, and love. This Pulitzer-winning novel remains a defining work on the Black American experience. With evocative storytelling and deeply personal themes, Morrison illuminates the lasting trauma of enslavement, ensuring ‘Beloved’ continues to resonate with readers across generations.
5. The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
Steinbeck’s powerful novel follows the Joad family’s journey from the Dust Bowl to California during the Great Depression, capturing their struggles with injustice and survival. ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ offers a vivid depiction of America in crisis while exploring resilience and dignity in adversity. With unforgettable characters and deep social themes, it remains a cornerstone of American literature. Steinbeck’s storytelling highlights the hardships of the working class and the unyielding spirit required to endure and overcome life’s challenges.
The Grapes of Wrath (Picture Credit – Instagram)
6. Doctor Zhivago by Boris Pasternak
Set against the Russian Revolution, ‘Doctor Zhivago’ follows Yuri Zhivago, a physician and poet torn between two women and the chaos of history. Pasternak’s poetic prose and philosophical depth create a timeless story of love, sacrifice, and destiny. With its rich emotional landscape and historical significance, the novel offers an unforgettable reading experience, capturing both the brutality and fleeting beauty of life in a time of upheaval. It remains a powerful meditation on the human spirit amid turmoil.
7. The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner
Told through multiple perspectives and an experimental stream-of-consciousness style, ‘The Sound and the Fury’ unravels the tragic decline of the once-proud Compson family in the American South. Faulkner’s daring narrative structure and profound psychological depth make it both challenging and rewarding. Through shifting viewpoints, the novel explores time, identity, and family legacy with intricate storytelling. A landmark in American fiction, it offers a deeply immersive and thought-provoking experience, cementing Faulkner’s place as a master of modern literature.
8. The Tin Drum by Günter Grass
A cornerstone of postwar German literature, ‘The Tin Drum’ follows Oskar Matzerath, a boy who refuses to grow as a protest against the absurdities of adulthood and war. Blending historical fiction with magical realism, Grass creates a satirical, darkly humorous, and unsettling novel that remains a literary triumph. Through Oskar’s eyes, the book critiques Germany’s troubled past while exploring guilt, resistance, and identity. Bold and provocative, it remains essential for readers drawn to historical and philosophical fiction.
9. Disgrace by J.M. Coetzee
Set in post-apartheid South Africa, ‘Disgrace’ follows a university professor whose life spirals after an affair with a student. Coetzee’s spare, precise prose and stark examination of race, power, and personal downfall make it a modern classic. Through complex characters and moral dilemmas, the novel compels readers to confront redemption, privilege, and the weight of one’s choices. A profound reflection on social change, ‘Disgrace’ remains one of contemporary literature’s most significant and thought-provoking works.
Disgrace (Picture Credit – Instagram)
10. The Plague by Albert Camus
A philosophical novel set in a town devastated by a deadly plague, Camus’ ‘The Plague’ serves as an allegory for human resilience and the struggle against suffering. With its timeless themes of disease, isolation, and solidarity, it remains as compelling today as when first published. Camus’ exploration of absurdism and moral duty offers a profound meditation on existence and the strength of the human spirit. Essential for those seeking deep philosophical insights, this novel continues to resonate across generations.
These ten Nobel Prize-winning books are more than just celebrated works—they are stories that challenge, inspire, and stay with readers for a lifetime. They offer unforgettable narratives, deep reflections on humanity, and powerful messages that continue to resonate. Whether you’re drawn to historical epics, psychological depth, or existential philosophy, these books provide a reading experience that transcends time. Adding them to your bookshelf is an investment in literature’s finest achievements and a step toward a richer, more insightful reading journey.
