David Foster Wallace changed the landscape of American writing. His novels dissect our media-saturated culture in unflinching detail. And his essays are passed around to friends with the words, “You have to read this.” He became a literary rock star in his early thirties for his sprawling novel “Infinite Jest,” which introduced the world to his looping, verbose, cerebral style. Time Magazine later named it one of the “All Time 100 Greatest Novels.” When Wallace committed suicide in 2008, the Internet exploded with tributes and memories that might be surprised you if you weren’t paying attention to his career all along. And now, there’s a new Hollywood movie about David Foster Wallace, starring Jason Segel and Jesse Eisenberg.
Today, we celebrate the life and work of David Foster Wallace.
If you're having thoughts of suicide or are in emotional distress, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.