Gary Fisketjon Has Died. He Edited Ellis, Tartt, McInerney and McCarthy.
A champion of slow, methodical editing and long working relationships with writers, he was regarded as one of the best of his generation. He was 72.
Gary Fisketjon's passing marks the end of an era in literary editing. With a career spanning decades, he worked with some of the most renowned authors of his time, including Don DeLillo, Bret Easton Ellis, Donna Tartt, Jay McInerney, and Cormac McCarthy. His approach to editing, characterized by patience and a deep understanding of his writers' visions, earned him a reputation as one of the most respected editors of his generation.
Fisketjon's long-term collaborations with his authors were a hallmark of his career. His work with Donna Tartt, for example, spanned over 30 years, during which he edited her debut novel, "The Secret History," as well as her subsequent works, "The Little Friend" and "The Goldfinch." Such enduring relationships allowed him to develop a profound understanding of his writers' styles and voices, enabling him to provide insightful and nuanced editing that enhanced their work without altering its essence.
As the literary world mourns the loss of this influential editor, it's worth noting that Fisketjon's legacy will continue to shape the careers of future generations of writers and editors. His commitment to the craft of editing and his dedication to his authors serve as a model for those in the industry. Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how the publishing world evolves in the wake of Fisketjon's passing and whether his approach to editing will continue to influence the types of books that are being produced.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. NewsDebate adds analysis for general news readers.