Thomas M. Disch, at 68

I just got the news via Jeff VanderMeer: Thomas M. Disch is dead. From Ellen Datlow´s blog:

I've just found out that Tom Disch committed suicide in his apartment on July 4th. He was found by a friend who lives a few blocks away.

I'm shocked, saddened, but not very surprised. Tom had been depressed for several years and was especially hit by the death of his longtime partner Charles Naylor. He also was very worried about being evicted from the rent controlled apartment he lived in for decades.

Last week, he sent me answers for an interview regarding his book The Word of God. He was very considerate, witty, and funny. I was very excited, because I´m a long time fan of his work - and of him. I´ve even met him when he was in Rio in the early 1990s for a couple of speeches in universities.

Vá com Deus, Tom. God bless you.