Atlanta author E. Lynn Harris dead at age 54
Atlanta author E. Lynn Harris
Atlanta author E. Lynn Harris died Friday at age 54 during a west coast book tour.
In a statement to the AJC, Alison Rich, Doubleday executive director of publicity said: “We at Doubleday are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of E. Lynn Harris’ death at too young an age. His pioneering novels and powerful memoir about the black gay experience touched and inspired millions of lives, and he was a gifted storyteller whose books brought delight and encouragement to readers everywhere. Lynn was a warm and generous person, beloved by friends, fans, and booksellers alike, and we mourn his passing.”
A cause of death was not immediately known. Further inquiries were directed to the Los Angeles coroner’s office.
In January of this year, Harris began the book tour for his 12th best-seller “Basketball Jones” here in Atlanta with a signing at one of his favorite shops, Outwrite Books in Midtown.
On Friday afternoon, Outwrite Books owner Philip Rafshoon reflected on a literary career that began here in Atlanta after Harris spent $25,000 of his own money to self-publish his debut novel “Invisible Life” in 1992. He sold it out of his car trunk and at beauty shops.
The book quickly became an underground hit by shedding a spotlight on life “on the down low” — African-American men who self-identified as heterosexual but secretly slept with other men.
“He came in with the books and I remember saying to him, ‘We’ll take every copy you’ve got.’ ” recalled Rafshoon. “Everyone here is in shock today. People can’t believe it’s true. For many black gay people, E. Lynn Harris’ books were the first books they ever read about themselves.”
Harris’ friend and Atlanta author Pearl Cleage recalled meeting Harris in the early 1990s when they both showed up to a seminar at the Georgia World Congress Center as self-published writers lugging their bags of books with them.
“Along with Terry McMillan’s ‘Waiting to Exhale,’ E. Lynn Harris’ ‘Invisible Life’ helped to create a bigger space for us,” Cleage reflected. “Those two books helped to not only define but also to broaden what African-Americans wanted to read. They also informed New York publishers that these voices were out there. He made an important impact on American letters.”
Author and former AJC arts editor Valerie Boyd was the first writer to review “Invisible Life” in 1992.
“I remember reading this self-published book with typos and the binding coming apart,” said Boyd. “But E. Lynn was really the first to show us that life. He could push an uncomfortable conversation forward until we became comfortable talking about it. That was his genius.”
Boyd once rescued the author at a dinner party when a heterosexual African-American female reader cornered him, angry at him for exposing the secret life of “down low” men.
“African-American women became his most devoted readers because he made them aware of a world that could prove dangerous to them,” explained Boyd. “He became our big brother.”
Despite inking a series of lucrative publishing deals and becoming a frequent fixture on the New York Times best-seller list, Harris’ approach with readers never changed over the years.
“He would get up and hug each person in line,” recalled Boyd. “He personalized each book and he took the time to make that connection with each reader.”
Harris’ 13th book, “Mama Dearest” was tentatively set to be released on Oct. 13, 2009.
Earlier this year in an interview with the AJC, the writer discussed his ongoing creative growth.
“Surprisingly, it has been through teaching that I think my writing has improved,” Harris said. “I teach creative writing at the University of Arkansas, and last semester I had a great class of students, and I feel like I learned more than they did. Getting up in front of people every day, talking about writing and talking about the process, has made me a better writer.”
Said Cleage: “He was a great friend. Someone you could have a margarita with and he would give you great advice if you were having problems with your publisher or your book tour. When you were talking with him, he never had another place to get to. He was committed to telling the truth and loving his family, his friends and his lovers. I miss him already.”
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123 comments Add your comment
Fan
July 24th, 2009
1:23 pm
WOW. That is just so hard for me to believe. I really enjoyed his writing. Condolences to those he leaves behind.
Marge Owens
July 24th, 2009
1:27 pm
WOW can not believe this!!
Deanna
July 24th, 2009
1:28 pm
Awful….great author. Reread his novels over and over again. My prayers are with his family and friends.
Alice
July 24th, 2009
1:29 pm
I fell in love with his books from the first one I read. I actually cried. May he rest in peace. My condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.
Ms Ice
July 24th, 2009
1:29 pm
He was a great author….
monica
July 24th, 2009
1:31 pm
WOw..im still in shock! I luv his books and was waiting for basketball jones to come out..one of my favorite black authors..
Omahara Sams
July 24th, 2009
1:33 pm
OMG! I’m so taking back. My condolences to his family.
Lala
July 24th, 2009
1:34 pm
May you rest in peace and I pray that your soul in anchored in the Lord.
Just as I am is the 1st book I read as and adult that was for pleasure. I have read all of your books and they are truley enjoyable.
Mr. Harris you will be greatly missed.
Peace & blessings
Betty Henderson
July 24th, 2009
1:34 pm
Im terribly saddened by the passing of my favorite author. I have been a faithful fan since his first book. I have been at every book signing when he comes to Michigan. He will be truly missed but forever in my heart he will always stay.
Fan From STL
July 24th, 2009
1:35 pm
This is so heartbreaking… I’ve been a true reader of his work from the start. He will be missed greatly by all.
Fatima
July 24th, 2009
1:35 pm
He was truly a gifted man….I may not have agreed with the topics he wrote about, homosexuality, but I’ve read almost all of his books and he was truly talented. May he rest in peace, love, and my condolences to his family.
Jena Hicklen
July 24th, 2009
1:36 pm
Wow! This is shocking! Not what I expected to see on the news today. Rest in Peace Mr. Harris. Your words will be truly missed.
Dina
July 24th, 2009
1:36 pm
God rest his soul! He was an outstanding author!
Dina
July 24th, 2009
1:36 pm
God rest his soul! He was an outstanding author!
Cre'
July 24th, 2009
1:39 pm
Wow! Who would have thought, the world of authors has truly lost someone great!
Debra C.
July 24th, 2009
1:40 pm
I am so hurt…I dont believe it …may GOD bless his family in this time of sorrow…i am so hurt..
Patrice
July 24th, 2009
1:41 pm
I can’t believe this! He and his work will be truly missed! This is truly a heartbreak…truly! May he rest in peace.
ceecee
July 24th, 2009
1:42 pm
im just finishing up his “i say a little pray”, which is a page turner! rest in peace mr. harris,we will always love you!
Rumor: Author E. Lynn Harris Dead? | Breaking News
July 24th, 2009
1:42 pm
[...] “A story posted online at ArkansasSports360.com on Friday reported that Atlanta author E. Lynn Harris has died at age 54 during a west coast book tour. A blog update posted at the Arkansas Times newspaper reported on its website that Harris suffered ‘a serious health set back’ Friday morning and then updated it with news of the writer’s death.” Link [...]
Marion
July 24th, 2009
1:45 pm
Wow, This is so hard to believe I’m at work now and it’s really hard not to cry Lynn was/is my favorite author I have all this books.
God Bless his family and Friends.
God speed,
Whole9
July 24th, 2009
1:46 pm
Mr. Harris was a very talented author and publisher whose first novel (”Invisble Life) succeeded against all demographic odds (who would buy a novel by a black gay author about the black gay lifestyle). One can not underestimate the influence and impact he has had on helping the black community come to terms with it’s gay and lesbian members. Thank you Mr. Harris you for your contributions!
Crystal
July 24th, 2009
1:47 pm
I just got the news and I can’t believe it – I love his work. I’m actually reading one of the books now. My condolences to his family and friends. He will truly be missed.
Len Thomas
July 24th, 2009
1:48 pm
I am so shocked! I have every last one of his books, so gifted was E. Lynn Harris. He will be missed by many. God rest his soul.
TRM
July 24th, 2009
1:48 pm
Lord, we are dying too young! I pray for his family. May God be with them during this tragic loss. Wow, too much to put into words…
Author E. Lynn Harris Confirmed Dead, E. Lynn Harris Died | Breaking News
July 24th, 2009
1:51 pm
[...] >> Online blogs report Atlanta author E. Lynn Harris has died [...]
Tonya Cole
July 24th, 2009
1:53 pm
I am truly sadden by this news. i’ve truly enjoyed his books n my prayers are extended to his family and friends
Maurice
July 24th, 2009
1:54 pm
WOW, He’s one of my friends on Facebook and was just expressing how he was so excited to be back in California. That was just yesterday. Life is too short everyone. We have to cherish the people we love because tomorrow is not promised to anyone! WOW
Fan
July 24th, 2009
1:54 pm
OMG!! I have been a fan of his writing for years now. I will keep his family in my prayers
Mary Shankle
July 24th, 2009
1:56 pm
Wow! He was such a good author! I will miss him. There goes Basil!!
Neebee
July 24th, 2009
1:58 pm
I’m saddened by this also. I started reading E. Lynn Harris books around 10th or 11th grade. May he RIP
Robin
July 24th, 2009
1:59 pm
Sad toHear,This was a Personla friend, we just spoke on Facebook yesterday, and he was ecstatic. My Prayers are with his Family. You will be MISSED.
Alicia
July 24th, 2009
1:59 pm
Wow, is all that seems to come to mind. He was one of my fav writers & will be missed.
Erica
July 24th, 2009
2:01 pm
I am sooo saden right now. E lynn harris was the only reason i ever read. He has helped me thru some hard trials in my life. It was in his books that i found some kind of peace. My heart goes out to everyone who’s lives Mr. Harris has touched. To his family and dear friends…
This too shall pass! RIP Mr. Harris and Thank you!
Atlanta Black Gay Male
July 24th, 2009
2:02 pm
His books were so very important to me. They had a positive impact on my life as I finally was able to read interesting and (mostly) affirming stories about being African-American and gay.
In a word full of people who “don’t agree with homosexuals”, it is important to have our stories told in a positive light.
May he rest in peace.
Sunny
July 24th, 2009
2:03 pm
Not a fan of his books at all, but I hope that his friends and family find comfort in what will be a truly difficult time in their life. God Bless
Stephanie O'Guinn
July 24th, 2009
2:04 pm
Wow, I remember going to the book signing of his first book like it was yesterday (Invisible Life). He was such a gifted writer. I met him numerous times at book signings. He was always the same. I remember one signing where he brought one of the guys from the cover on his books. It was awesome. He will be missed. I always looked forward to his next book.
Peggy
July 24th, 2009
2:06 pm
Mr. Harris wrote passionately about unconditional love. It was through his books that I understood that just because someone loves differently than me, they deserve the same respect. With the exception of the last book, I have all the others autographed by Mr. Harris. It was a pleasure to meet you first in Savannah and in Atl. Your compassioniate writing skills will be missed.
Jeanette
July 24th, 2009
2:06 pm
This is another sad day! I truly enjoyed reading E. Lynn’s books. What a great lost to the literary workd..
Ronise
July 24th, 2009
2:06 pm
Rest In Peace. Although, I never read his books I have heard of him. I have seen his face and name for many years.
Arnetha
July 24th, 2009
2:07 pm
My heart goes out to his family and fans, he was truly a great writer and will be missed.
Razorback Fan
July 24th, 2009
2:08 pm
One of his LBs is taking it very hard. No one knows if he had the “champ” that bug that don’t lose a fight aka magic aka die slow. However, he didn’t hide from being “gender specific”. He is a legend up here on the hill (University of Arkansas), from chartering the Alphas to be the first black cheerleader and famed auther/professor. like sammie said, that’s life fam. My wife is bugging now making me get all of the books he signed from when she was in his classes at the U of A.
LaToya Turner
July 24th, 2009
2:09 pm
I am deeply saddend by this passing, I truely love him, and his writtings, I have read every one of his books, and will miss him so much, this is a huge loss in black america, if you read you understand where I’m coming from, much love to e. Lynn Harris and his family with who he makes it no secret how much he loves,my deepest sympahty and condolences to all fans and family alike… He will be missed
ms. d
July 24th, 2009
2:09 pm
wow. i can’t believe it. another great author gone to soon.
Marie
July 24th, 2009
2:10 pm
Incomprehensible!!!
Anthony
July 24th, 2009
2:11 pm
I am really shocked and saddened to hear of Mr. Harris’ death. He was a brillant writter. Hopefully this is a hoax.
Kelly
July 24th, 2009
2:14 pm
Love all your books detailed writer you will be missed.Prayers to your family.
itamazesme
July 24th, 2009
2:15 pm
very talented author, and he had an awesome gift of story telling…he will be missed
Mountain
July 24th, 2009
2:17 pm
When I got the text that E Lynn Harris Passed my heart sank I ran to my computer to find out if it was true I wanted it not to be I just knew he would write again. I have all your books you will be missed. Prayers to the family.
keeyna
July 24th, 2009
2:18 pm
I will keep his family in my prayers. He was one of my favorite authors may u rest in peace.
GBM in MD
July 24th, 2009
2:18 pm
I find it interesting that most of the comments are from women. While I am a great supporter of Black authors, I stopped reading E. Lynn’s books after “Invisible Life”. As a GBM, I was so excited to have an author come along with writing with us in mind. When the self-published book came out there was no one writing for us about us. However, with the popularity of “Invisible Life” to the Black female audience and the monetary success, major publishing houses took an interest in E. Lynn’s work and he obviously starting writing to and for them. I understand that Black females read more (buy more books) than Black males – gay or otherwise. So, I couldn’t be mad a E. Lynn. I was just terribly disappointed. Still, I am sad to hear that he is no longer with us. My prayers go out to his family, friends, staff and readers.
Who is going to fill that void?
Dominic
July 24th, 2009
2:19 pm
OMG, It is so hard to believe that he is gone, I enjoyed his writing and I am so Shocked and Sadden by his death. He was brillant writier and he knew how to talk about the gay life style with class. My Prayers are with his Family.
John
July 24th, 2009
2:20 pm
Wow this is just unbelievable. I was an avid fan of Mr Harris’ books and fell in love with the characters he created. My condolances to his freinds and family. I will never forget the day I was fortunate enough to meet him in Chicago during one of his readings. A huge honor for me! We will miss you!
Memphis Fan
July 24th, 2009
2:22 pm
All I can say is OMG! I am in total shock and sadden by this. May he rest in peace and prayers to his family and friends.
Terri Rainey
July 24th, 2009
2:22 pm
My depest condolences to the family. Such a wonderful man gone too soon.
May his fond memories comfort you and his Angel Spirit protect you forevermore.
Dessiree
July 24th, 2009
2:23 pm
OMG!!!!…..I can’t believe we just lost on of the best author in the world…..RIP E. Lynn Harris
Linda
July 24th, 2009
2:25 pm
He will be greatly missed. He was a great author and always gave us books that we kept turning the pages.
Danielle
July 24th, 2009
2:25 pm
I am in tears. I fell in love with his characters and his writing style after reading Invisible Life. I gained even more respect for him after reading about how he overcame his personal and professional struggles his autobiography What Becomes of the Brokenhearted. After meeting him at book signings, I was happy to learn that he was a funny, humble, genuine man. I will keep him and his family in my thoughts and prayers. Thank God future generations will be able to enjoy this wonderful man’s work. RIP, E. Lynn.
Regina
July 24th, 2009
2:26 pm
Great author! Condolences to his family and friends!
Minister DTerrell Fears - (Full of Praise & Worship Mime Dance Ministries)
July 24th, 2009
2:27 pm
He wrote a Tremendous amount of Good books. And may he RIP.and May his Contribution Legacy Live on. My prayer goes out to his Family.
LA
July 24th, 2009
2:31 pm
WOW!!!….E you will be missed. My Prayers, deepest sympathy and condolences to all fans and family, one of the world’s greatest author’s has been called home. RIP E. Lynn Harris
Elle
July 24th, 2009
2:31 pm
RIP E. Lynn Harris. I can not tell you how much your books have meant to me in my life. I even had a conversation with you about how much your writing gave me hope when all was lost. Your personal story is inspirational and know that you have touched so many lives. God bless your family, friends and fans during this time.
Kheisha Brown
July 24th, 2009
2:31 pm
E. Lynn Harris has always been a inspiration to me, he will be greatly missed.
felisa fulton
July 24th, 2009
2:33 pm
I am very sad at this moment, hearing this kind of news. I love all of his novels and never could wait for the new release. We love you E lynn my prayers go out to your family!
Makenzye mom
July 24th, 2009
2:34 pm
noooooooooooooo. R u serious? O wow. I love him and will always love him. He is the reason I started reading. I have everything he wrote. RIP Everette Lynn Harris
Taneka
July 24th, 2009
2:34 pm
If this is true, it’s so sad!! My prayers and condolences go out to his family. He was a great author, and will truly be missed! R.I.P
CP
July 24th, 2009
2:35 pm
Beautiful person inside and out. Thank you for taking the time to give your advice, for being so gracious in person, and so creative in print. God Blessed you in life, may he bless you for eternity.
God made Adam and Eve
July 24th, 2009
2:38 pm
Had Mr. Harris’ health been poor, with any chronic disease [the Big 'A']? Oh well. May he now be at peace. His literary work will live on, I’m sure.
Elizabeth
July 24th, 2009
2:39 pm
I am so saddened by the news. I have enjoyed his books from Day One. He was able to bring the characters to life. He will be so missed. There will never be anyone else like him.
Chad
July 24th, 2009
2:41 pm
I worked with Lynn at the University of Arkansas when he taught for us. I will miss his upbeat personality and ever-ready smile. You didn’t necesarily have to read his books to admire the man.
Kimi
July 24th, 2009
2:41 pm
While I didn’t read another of his works after “Invisible Life” I could easily see in that book what a gifted writer & storyteller he was. RIP E. Lynn – condolences & blessings to his family and frineds.
keshia
July 24th, 2009
2:42 pm
O.M.G i can’t believe this has happen. E.Lynn is and was my farovite author he will be truly missed.. My prayers go to his loves and FANS…
NAJEE
July 24th, 2009
2:43 pm
WORDS CAN NOT EXPRESS HOW I FEEL. AFTER READING HIS FIRST BOOK INVISABLE LIFE YEARS AGO I WAS HOOKED. THE WAY HE EXPRESSED HIS WRITING IN HIS BOOKS. FROM ONE GAY BLACK MALE TO ANOTHER, HE GAVE HE HOPE. HE WILL BE DEARLY MISSED BUT I KNOW NOW H’S IN A BETTER PLACE. “JUST AS I AM”
john
July 24th, 2009
2:50 pm
Sammie as usual there is always dumb comments made by people like you. When you die, is that the first question your family and friends (if you have any), should ask about you? Think about it.
Tracy
July 24th, 2009
2:51 pm
I am at a loss for words. Such a wonderful and talented writer. I made it a point to see him every time he came to Lithonia’s Borders Bookstore at Stone Crest Mall. I was looking forward to him reviving Yancy and Ava. He even talked about a movie deal. I hope it comes to pass.
Whatever
July 24th, 2009
2:56 pm
So sad – I just finished reading his memoirs and he used to be a tortured soul. It was really refreshing to read that with the help of Christ and his loved ones he was able to come out of his depression & alcoholism. God speed, Lynn. Rest easy.
Lee
July 24th, 2009
2:57 pm
I am truly saddened by this news. Invisible Life was the FIRST novel I read cover to cover and I have been a fan ever since. It was through his writings that I begin to feel comfortable being an intellectual and intelligent black, gay man.
Lee
July 24th, 2009
2:58 pm
I am truly saddened by this news. Invisible Life was the FIRST novel I read cover to cover and I have been a fan ever since. It was through his writings that I began to feel comfortable being an intellectual and intelligent black, gay man.
Chasetta
July 24th, 2009
3:07 pm
Seems the death angel is striking famous people. I wasn’t a fan but several of my close friends are. I’ve heard he was a talented writer. This will hit them hard. My condolences to all of his fans who are grieving. I pray that the God of comfort will comfort us all thru this season of grief.
Tina Marie
July 24th, 2009
3:08 pm
I am shocked I love his work. I am loss for words at his passing. My sympathies go out to his family
LaShawn
July 24th, 2009
3:16 pm
I just heard about E. Lynn’s passing on the Michael Baisden show. E. Lynn was one of my favorite authors, I have read all his books. My heart goes out to his family. RIP
Gina
July 24th, 2009
3:22 pm
I am very sad. He was my favorite author and I have and read all of his books. All of this death lately is very sad and depressing. People losing their lives at such young ages and so unexpectedly. May the Lord continue to bless their souls and grant their families needed strength in this time of mourning.
Stunned
July 24th, 2009
3:25 pm
WOW!!! I simply cannot believe this! I loved his work; I have everybook he has written, some in paperback and hard cover. A true shocker!!!
Rose Taylor
July 24th, 2009
3:29 pm
Losing E.Lynn is a terrible loss. He was a great writer who opened my eyes on a variety of levels. Condolences to those who loved him… Rest in Peace, my brother.
Eric
July 24th, 2009
3:33 pm
I’m short of words…and downcast…what a talented writer he was…from the very first book…way into the nights I read…E.Lynn Harris, you were a blessing to me and so many other fans in so many ways…besides your writings, you lived your life in truth…out to the world…what an inspiration…you’ll always be missed…
A_Tru_Fan
July 24th, 2009
3:40 pm
Wow…I am in dis-belief I meet him at the book signing in midtown last year. Him and his works will be sorely missed. RIP brother.
Mrs. QB
July 24th, 2009
3:41 pm
I have raed all his books. An awesome author. He will be missed. Wow! so hard to believe another one Gone
R.I.P
A.T.A.
July 24th, 2009
3:41 pm
My condolences go out to Harris’ family. I really enjoyed his literature and was touched by many of his novels. I am happy that he shared an important story for our society and I hope his work to help the African-American Gay community continues!!
TracyKC
July 24th, 2009
3:49 pm
My condolences go out to his family, friends, and dedicated fans. His writings will truelly be missed
deborah gregory
July 24th, 2009
3:54 pm
i’m in shock. as a fellow author, i knew e. lynn harris for years. had lunch at his house recently in atlanta and marvelled at how committed he was to his well being. he exercised regularly, had a gym in his house. ate healthily. i just don’t understand. i, for one, want to hear more details from the autopsy report.
Jennifer
July 24th, 2009
3:59 pm
I am truly hurt. I have read all of his books and my prayers are with his family and fans.
jct
July 24th, 2009
4:00 pm
This is so heartbreaking. Just this week I have started re-reading the Invisible Life series. My heart goes out to his family.
A.E.
July 24th, 2009
4:04 pm
I am so sad. I love him. He is one of my favorite authors. I have all of his books. May he rest in peace. He will be sadly missed.
Terrance
July 24th, 2009
4:06 pm
Sad to here about the death of someone I called a fried. R.I.P. So glad we crossed paths.
Lynnette
July 24th, 2009
4:17 pm
Oh my gosh!!! I am in shock. This is a sad day for the literary world and all who have been touched by his works. God rest his soul!! May he find all the peace in the next world!
Angie
July 24th, 2009
4:21 pm
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of E. Lynn Harris. I remember around 1992, me and a friend left our jobs to go to a book signing here in downtown Atlanta where he was signining his books. He made each one of feel special and thanked us for buying his book, Invisible Life. He told a few jokes and we laughed our butts off. He told me that if we got fired for staying too long at the book signing to call him and he would hire me. He was a delightful person and a talented and creative writer. He will be missed.
Darlene
July 24th, 2009
4:26 pm
Another one of God’s children has gone home. No more heartache or pain..May your soul rest in peace!
c.e.n.
July 24th, 2009
4:34 pm
I am in shock. His characters had depth. I would re-read his books over and over. Last summer I sent him an email expressing my appreciation for his writings. I did not expect a response, but like a true gentleman, he sent me a reply. He was so geniune. God bless E. Lynn. The literary world has lost a great writer…one who knew the pains and the troubled life of gay black men.
Lauren
July 24th, 2009
4:40 pm
Absolutely the best!!!!!!!!!
He is definitely the leader in gay fiction.
God Bless You E Lynn Harris. Enjoy your new life. Please send us more books from heaven.
Robert Rainey
July 24th, 2009
4:42 pm
Lord have mercy, Jesus!
news bytes » Blog Archive » e. lynn harris death
July 24th, 2009
4:48 pm
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