July 3, 2001
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien expressed his deep sadness today following news
of the death of Canadian novelist Mordecai Richler:
"Mordecai Richler was the quintessential Canadian man of words, and
his loss leaves us grasping for words that can do justice to his importance
in Canada’s artistic landscape. He was quite simply one of the most
brilliant, original and celebrated artists in Canadian history whose works
will continue to stand the test of time for generations to come.
Twice honoured by the Governor General of Canada and many times more by
authorities here and abroad, Mordecai Richler was a truly distinctive
Canadian voice which struck a chord around the world. His singular
talent and mordant wit shone through every sentence he wrote, both as a
novelist and as a public commentator. Today, as his voice fell silent,
Canada suffered an immeasurable loss: that of a son who enriched our nation
and made all of us proud to be Canadian.
Aline joins me in offering, on behalf of all Canadians, our deepest
condolences to Mordecai Richler’s children, family and friends. I
sincerely hope that they can find some comfort and solace in the indelible
legacy he leaves behind, and in the love of the written word he inspired in
us all."
- 30 -
PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555
