A memoir by Richard Brautigan's daughter offers a poignant look into life with her father and her process of coming to terms with his suicide. The book is interspersed with photos that vividly showcase Brautigan's inner turmoil. It comes as no shock to discover that he battled depression and alcoholism throughout his adult life. However, what is truly astonishing is the fact that he was able to have a highly productive career as both a novelist and a poet. Ianthe's pursuit of getting to know her father better is noble and is exquisitely conveyed in the memoir. Her account provides readers with a deeper understanding of Brautigan, not just as a literary figure but as a complex human being. Through her words, we are able to witness the love, pain, and confusion that came with being Brautigan's daughter. It is a powerful and moving story that will stay with readers long after they have finished the book.
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You Can't Catch Death
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In all of the obituaries and writing about Richard Brautigan that appeared after his suicide, none revealed to Ianthe Brautigan the father she knew. Through it took all of her courage, she delved into her memories, good and bad, to retrieve him, and began to write. You Can't Catch Death is a frank, courageous, heartbreaking reflection on both a remarkable man and the child he left behind.
240 pages, Paperback
First published January 1,2000
This edition
- Format
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240 pages, Paperback
- Published
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July 10, 2001 by St. Martin's Griffin
- ISBN
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9780312264185
- ASIN
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0312264186
- Language
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English
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Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 67 votes)
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A lovely book can truly be a magical thing. It has the power to transport us to different worlds, introduce us to fascinating characters, and evoke a wide range of emotions. Whether it's a thrilling adventure, a heartwarming romance, or a thought-provoking non-fiction piece, a lovely book has the ability to engage our minds and capture our imaginations. The words on the pages seem to come alive, painting vivid pictures in our minds and making us feel as if we are right there in the story. We can lose ourselves in its pages for hours on end, forgetting about the outside world and all of its troubles. A lovely book is not just a collection of words; it's a treasure trove of knowledge, inspiration, and entertainment. It can be a source of comfort in times of sadness, a source of excitement in times of boredom, and a source of wisdom in times of confusion. So, the next time you pick up a lovely book, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and wonder that lies within its covers. Let it carry you away on a journey that you'll never forget.
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If you’re interested in Richard Brautigan’s life, this book by his daughter is an alternative to reading a stuffy biography. It offers a unique perspective that only a family member could provide. Instead of the dry facts and figures that often充斥着 traditional biographies, this book is filled with personal anecdotes and memories. You’ll get to know Brautigan not just as a writer, but as a father, a friend, and a human being. The author’s insights into her father’s life and work are both fascinating and revealing. She shares stories about his creative process, his relationships with others, and the events that shaped his life. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Brautigan’s work or simply curious about his life, this book is well worth reading. It provides a fresh and engaging look at one of the most interesting and influential writers of the 20th century.
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Ianthe was truly a remarkable individual. She had inherited her father's grace and subtlety, which was quite evident in her writing. For any fan of Brautigan, this book is an absolute must-read. As Ianthe recounts her childhood memories, one can't help but be drawn into her world. However, the book also delves into the painful topic of her father's suicide. It is a poignant and heart-wrenching account as she processes this tragic event. Despite the sadness that pervades the story, there is also a certain beauty to it. Ianthe's writing is so evocative that it allows the reader to experience her emotions along with her. Overall, this is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. xo b
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Heart breakingly beautiful. This simple phrase holds a world of emotions and imagery. It describes something that is so beautiful that it almost hurts. It could be a sunset that takes your breath away, a piece of music that makes your heart ache, or a love that is so intense that it leaves you in pieces. The beauty is bittersweet, filled with a sense of longing and loss. It makes you feel alive and yet, at the same time, it makes you want to cry. It is a beauty that you can't forget, no matter how hard you try. Heart breakingly beautiful things have a way of touching our souls and leaving an indelible mark. They make us realize that life is full of both joy and pain, and that sometimes, the most beautiful things come at a great cost. So, the next time you encounter something that is heart breakingly beautiful, don't be afraid to let it in. Let it touch your heart and soul, and let it change you forever.
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Ianthe Brautigan's memoir of her dad is truly a remarkable piece of work that is well worth reading if you have the slightest urge to do so. It connects on multiple levels, unfortunately. Richard Brautigan's words, "Where did that kid go, Mother? I don't know, Father.... I don't see him anywhere. I guess he's gone. Maybe he went home," add a poignant touch to the memoir. The title, "So the Wind Won't Blow It All Away," seems to hint at the fragility and transience of memories and relationships. Ianthe's account likely delves into the complex emotions and experiences she had with her father, offering a unique perspective on their connection. Reading this memoir may allow readers to gain a deeper understanding of the human condition and the power of family ties. It is a story that will resonate with many, touching on themes of loss, longing, and the search for meaning. Overall, Ianthe Brautigan's memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of family and the impact of a parent's presence or absence.
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Richard Brautigan truly shattered my preconceived notions about literature. During my sophomore and junior years in high school, I was completely enamored with the beatniks and longed to have been a part of their crowd. It wasn't Kerouac, Ginsberg, or Ferlinghetti (even though I loved visiting City Lights and strolling through North Beach) that I held in the highest regard; it was Brautigan.
Consequently, Iantha Brautigan's book was an absolute must-read for me. I greatly admire the fact that she wrote the book for herself and not for fans like me. This approach guaranteed a personal and honest outcome, enabling the public to catch a glimpse of the family dynamics, the idiosyncrasies, and the overall path of Brautigan's life.
Of course, I still yearn to know more, just as the author does. By the conclusion, I neither pity nor envy Iantha, but I do applaud her for penning what must have been an extremely difficult book to write and share. It takes great courage and authenticity to open up one's life in such a profound way, and Iantha Brautigan has done just that.
Consequently, Iantha Brautigan's book was an absolute must-read for me. I greatly admire the fact that she wrote the book for herself and not for fans like me. This approach guaranteed a personal and honest outcome, enabling the public to catch a glimpse of the family dynamics, the idiosyncrasies, and the overall path of Brautigan's life.
Of course, I still yearn to know more, just as the author does. By the conclusion, I neither pity nor envy Iantha, but I do applaud her for penning what must have been an extremely difficult book to write and share. It takes great courage and authenticity to open up one's life in such a profound way, and Iantha Brautigan has done just that.
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I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in knowing Brautigan a little better. His daughter is an excellent writer herself, and this book is her attempt to come to terms with his suicide. It is not only a personal exploration but also a beautiful homage to fathers in general. The inclusion of family photos makes it even more touching, adding a visual dimension to the narrative. She also references many of Brautigan's writer friends such as Robert Creeley, Tom McGuane, and Jim Harrison. Additionally, she mentions actors and directors like Peter Fonda, Jack Nicholson, Francis Ford Coppola, and Hal Ashby. Hal Ashby, in particular, is known for his work on Harold and Maude and Being There, and he almost filmed Brautigan's The Hawkline Monster: A Gothic Western. This book offers a unique perspective on Brautigan's life and work, as well as insights into the creative community he was a part of. It is a must-read for fans of Brautigan and those interested in the intersection of literature and film.
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