Edmund White’s writing shone a light in dark times | Brief letters

The obituary of Edmund White by Eric Homberger received mixed reactions, particularly regarding the portrayal of White's response to the AIDS crisis. One critic, Patrick Gale, expressed disagreement with Homberger's assertion that White's reaction indicated a failure of nerve as a writer. Gale highlighted White's collaboration with Adam Mars-Jones on the collection 'The Darker Proof,' which provided solace and understanding to those grappling with the loss of friends during the epidemic. This work was significant for many who struggled to articulate the pain and devastation caused by AIDS in their own writing. Gale emphasized that 'The Darker Proof' served as a vital resource for individuals who had not yet found the courage to confront the subject in their literature, making it a poignant response to a time of deep societal neglect and emotional turmoil.

In addition to the discussion surrounding White, the letters section of the publication featured varied opinions on contemporary issues. Daniel Taylor praised the quality of writing from contributors like Nesrine Malik and John Harris, suggesting that their insights should be compulsory reading for political leaders, particularly Keir Starmer and his cabinet, in hopes of fostering greater resolve among them. Other writers voiced their frustrations regarding military spending and political rhetoric, with Paul Russell questioning the rationale behind increasing defense budgets while advocating for de-escalation in conflicts. Tom Stubbs and Stuart Waterworth also contributed their grievances about political language, reflecting a broader concern about clarity and accountability in communication. These letters collectively reveal a diverse spectrum of public sentiment on pressing issues, underscoring the importance of dialogue in addressing both historical and current challenges.