Paul Auster, the acclaimed author of 34 books, including the celebrated New York Trilogy, has passed away at the age of 77, as confirmed by his friend and fellow author Jacki Lyden to the Guardian. Auster, known for his highly stylized and enigmatic postmodernist fiction, often featuring unreliable narrators and shifting plotlines, left an indelible mark on contemporary literature.
Born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1947, Auster’s writing journey began at the age of eight, catalyzed by a missed autograph from his baseball idol, Willie Mays. This pivotal moment led him to carry a pencil everywhere, recognizing the potential for creative expression in even the simplest of tools.
At 14, while on a summer camp hike, Auster witnessed a tragic event that profoundly impacted him: a boy nearby was struck by lightning and killed instantly. This experience instilled in him a fascination with chance and coincidence, themes that would permeate much of his later work, including his Booker-shortlisted novel “4 3 2 1.”
Early Life
After studying at Columbia University, Auster moved to Paris in the early 1970s, where he immersed himself in various jobs, including translation work. It was during this time that he formed a relationship with writer Lydia Davis. They later married, but eventually separated after the birth of their son, Daniel.
Literary breakthrough of Paul Auster came with the publication of “City of Glass” in 1985, the first installment of his New York Trilogy. Although ostensibly mystery novels, these works delved into existential questions of identity and authorship, showcasing Auster’s penchant for philosophical exploration within the framework of detective fiction.
In 1982, Auster published his first memoir, “The Invention of Solitude,” which delved into his family history, including the tragic death of his grandfather at the hands of his grandmother. This deeply personal work shed light on Auster’s complex familial relationships and their lasting impact on his life and writing.
Throughout his career, Auster’s narrative voice captivated readers with its hypnotic allure, drawing them into intricate webs of storytelling that blurred the lines between reality and fiction. His legacy as a master storyteller and literary innovator will endure, leaving behind a rich tapestry of works that continue to inspire and provoke thought.