1919-2010

Author J.D. Salinger dies yesterday at the age of 91, according to his son. Salinger was one of the most important writers of the last 100 years, penning the classic Catcher in the Rye. He also released Franky and Zooey and numerous short stories before becoming a recluse in the mid 60's.

Unfortunately, for many, he is better known as said recluse or for the fact that Catcher was the "inspiration" for Mark David Chapman's murder of John Lennon. But for anyone who ever read his work, they know his place in the history of American art will be hard-pressed to be matched.

Rolling Stone had the following quote from Salinger's agent:

“He was not in any pain before or at the time of his death,” the agency said in a statement. “Salinger had remarked that he was in this world but not of it. His body is gone but the family hopes that he is still with those he loves, whether they are religious or historical figures, personal friends or fictional characters.”