One of the world’s most beloved authors- Harper Lee, passed away at the age of 89 on February 19. Known as the author of ‘our nation’s novel’ To Kill a Mockingbird, which was first released to the public in July 1960, this novel left an everlasting impact on our society. Her sudden death left people in both tears and tribute to celebrate the author adored by millions.
For starters, To Kill a Mockingbird is a classic of modern American literature. So much so, that all freshman in District 219 including Niles West and Niles North are required to read it in their English classes. The Pulitzer Prize winning novel takes place in Alabama during the Depression in the 1930’s, and is narrated by the main character, a little girl named Jean Louise “Scout” Finch. This is primarily a novel about growing up under extraordinary circumstances with Scout living with her brother Jem and their father Atticus in the fictitious town of Maycomb, Alabama.
Since it’s release 55 years ago, the novel has left outstanding effects in our society. For instance, with names. The name Atticus broke into the Social Security Administration’s list of the 1,000 top names for boys in 2004. In 2014, it occupied spot 370. The name Scout also placed itself as one of the top 1,000 names for girls in 2014.
In March 2015, rapper Kendrick Lamar released his Grammy Award winning album titled ‘To Pimp a Butterfly’ which he said was a twist on the prized novels name which deals with the same issues addressed on his album- racial injustice.
Many people around the world professed their love for Lee as soon as her death broke the news- which also became a trending topic on Twitter. Oprah Winfrey soon wrote to Twitter, “Harper Lee my 1st favorite author! I always wanted to interview her. She said “honey I already said everything I had to say”.#RIPHarperLee.” Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple also tweeted, “Rest in peace, Harper Lee. The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience”.
Though she is gone, Lee’s legacy will live on in classrooms across the world for many generations to come.
