Grace Paley, Dead at 84

Grace Paley, a wonderful writer and a truly grand human being, is no longer with us. Here's to Grace's life as a committed activist—a self-described “somewhat combative pacifist and cooperative anarchist.”

I had the honor of basking in Grace's presence at many an anti-nuke and peace rally over the years. She was a tough-minded, soft-hearted woman with a great smile and a wonderful sense of humor. She balanced great humility with the strength of her convictions. She stood up for what she believed in—with a twinkle in her eyes. She was, to me, a shining example of what a being a writer, an artist, and a citizen could mean.