The life of the beloved and acclaimed author/poet Jim Harrison is explored in a new biography, “Devouring Time: Jim Harrison, a Writer’s Life,” by Todd Goddard. The new book released just this month is the first and only biography of Harrison, who passed away in 2016.
Considered among many as one of the finest voices of his generation, Harrison created 21 books of fiction and 14 books of poetry that influenced a generation of writers. He is known for helping “to shape the course of Contemporary American literature, revitalizing in particular the novella form, of which he was a recognized master.” Before moving to Montana in 2002, Harrison and his wife, Linda, lived in Lake Leelanau just off French Road for more than 30 years. He became a familiar face at local establishments including the Bluebird restaurant and Dick’s Pour House, and took inspiration from his time living in Leelanau and northern Michigan.
Goddard, an associate professor of literary studies at Utah Valley University, said he started researching Harrison when he was in college, adding that he had always been a fan of his work. Goddard’s first introduction to Harrison began when he read “Legends of the Fall” which then led him to reading through all of his fiction, poetry, and nonfiction work.
