Michael F. Flynn (1947-2023)

It is withmuch sadness that I report that Michael F. Flynn, well-known science fictionwriter and longtime friend of this blog, has passed away.  Mike’s daughter made the announcement athis blog yesterday. 

That Mikewill be remembered for his work in science fiction goes without saying.  But it is worth emphasizing too that he wasan irreplaceable presence in the blogosphere, who showed the potential of themedium for work of substance and lasting value. I doubt he ever posted anything that didn’t reward his readers’attention, with writing that wore lightly Mike’s learning not only in the sciencesbut also in philosophy, theology, and history. He was for many years a regular and welcome contributor to the commentssection of this blog, raising the tone simply by virtue of his presence.  One of the things I most admired about himwas the calm and patient manner with which he would respond to even the mostobnoxious and ignorant interlocutors.  Henever had to say that he knew what hewas talking about, while his opponent didn’t. He simply showed it by typing up a few sentences.

I had thehonor and pleasure of meeting Mike in person only once, at a conference in NewYork City at which the esteemed Matt Briggswas also present.  The three of us “bloggersin arms” marked the event with aphoto.  (It was also an honor, and athrill, when Mike had a character cite me as an authority in his philosophicalSF short story “Places Where the Roads Don’t Go,” in his collection CaptiveDreams.  Thanks, Mike!)

Matt hasposted his own reflections about Mike at his blog. 

Though Iknew Mike mainly from our online interactions, I have to say it felt like a gutpunch to learn of his death.  Perhapsthat was for the usual selfish reason that all of us are sad at the death of aperson we like and admire – that we know wewill be worse off.  Thank you for yourwork, Mike, and may God bless and protect your soul.  You and yours are in our prayers.  RIP.