In 1996, when I learned of Carl Sagan’s death, I was bummed. Sagan was something of an intellectual and philosophical role model for me. Kinda like a dad. I had a dad of my own, and he was about Sagan’s age… and Sagan’s death got me thinking that my own father might not be too far behind.
Being an atheist, not believing in immortal souls and afterlives (or past lives, for that matter), I was content to know that Sagan was a smart (but imperfect) guy, from whom I’d learned a lot and his voice had been silenced. Sagan’s voice, fo me, had been one of wonder and discovery… an invitation to ask deep questions and seek honest answers. My dad introduced me to the works of Carl Sagan, and I am still grateful.
About 11 years later, my own father died, and, again, I was content to know that he was a smart (but imperfect) guy from whom, I’d learned a lot, and his voice had been silenced. His was a voice of hard-won wisdom and unrelenting acceptance of me and my unorthodox views, interests and motivations. My father was kind without fawning, gentle without being a pussy, and right a lot of the time without being pompous. I thank him for all he did for me, and I miss him.
Now, George Carlin is dead. My father also introduced me to the works of George… which may seem a little strange, as I was pretty young, and George’s material, even then, was targeted mostly at an adult audience. George was, in effect, the prototype of my own absurdometer. Sagan talked about using the tools of science and reason as a “baloney detection kit”… Carlin came right out and called bullshit bullshit. Carlin rarely failed to get laughs from me, no matter how disturbing, sad, depressing, scary or ridiculous he subject matter was. He made light of rape. … and he got laughs. There was a brave man. He wasn’t just brave; he was right.
I’ve seen George in concert 4 times, including on his most recent tour. Sure he was aging, sure he was slowing down and looking a little weaker, but he never stopped being relevant.
George Carlin never retired, either. He died, having worked, essentially, until his last day. …and he made a living doing something he loved to do, and further something he was exceptional at. His career in stand-up comedy ran over 40 years.
Thanks, George. For the laughs, for the insight, and for the unflinching bravery in the face of oppression. You’re already missed.
