This morning there is news that Kurt Vonnegut, esteemed author, has passed away at age 84 due to brain injuries sustained in a fall.

Vonnegut was the first “literary” writer I ever felt a pull to read. Everyone will talk about his famous novels, but I preferred his first Player Piano and a zany novel that came a little later, Deadeye Dick. I can’t claim to like all of his work, but he did have a voice that was distinct and compelling. He will be missed.