But it's not the end

Terry Pratchett, author of the Discworld novels, has announced that he has a rare form of early-onset Alzheimer's.

... I wrote the lines above a couple of hours ago. Then I was too stunned to say more.

Like someone else on an online lit group I belong to, my first thought was along the lines of "How many more books can we expect from him?" Totally selfish but also a compliment because Pratchett is a writer and a damn good one.

Also, for me, the fear of Alzheimer's. I've been haunted since I watched a documentary which had a scene in which an old man (in his 80s) cries quietly because his beloved wife no longer recognises him.

We like to think that active, creative minds are quite safe from the disease, but look at Iris Murdoch, and now Pratchett.

BUT!! As he says, in his press release, "'I am not dead'. I will, of course, be dead at some future point, as will everybody else. For me, this maybe further off than you think - it's too soon to tell."

So, let's celebrate Pratchett and his work, for there will be time enough to mourn, much, much later and anyway, who knows what life has in store for us. I think this calls for a re-read of all the books featuring Granny Weatherwax.

Comments

[Daphne]

We should hold a pratchett/discworld party. I'd like to come as Granny W but I think I'm probably more of a Nanny Ogg. I'm going to buy the Death books next. Guards??? Ok-lah will have a go. :-)

[Lia]

oh nooooooooooooo :(
one of my fav (if not the fav) writers of all time..

Yes, I agree, devour his books! :) Begin the Guards series my dear.. :) u will love it..