Atlanta Mourns the Loss of a Literary Voice: Cliff Bostock
Atlanta — The city of Atlanta is in mourning following the death of Cliff Bostock, a man whose voice resonated deeply within the community. Known for his multifaceted roles as a writer and editor, Bostock passed away, leaving behind a legacy of thought-provoking columns, rich storytelling, and insightful commentary.
Bostock’s footprint in Atlanta’s journalism scene is indelible. His decades-long association with Creative Loafing is particularly noteworthy. He not only served as an editor on multiple occasions but also crafted columns that lingered in the minds of his readers. His famous Grazing column might have centered around food, but anyone who read it knew it encapsulated so much more. His pieces were often infused with his psychoanalytical lens, providing an empathetic yet incisive view of human behavior.
Demonstrating his broad range, Bostock also penned the Headcase column, delving deeper into psychology and the human psyche. This capacity to explore different realms of thought solidified his status as a brilliant thinker and writer.
In 1978, Bostock broke barriers by becoming Atlanta’s first openly gay columnist. This bold move drew both acclaim and criticism, but he continued undeterred, paving the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ writers and activists. His work was a beacon for many, educating readers about sexual politics, gay liberation, civil rights, and the socio-economic dynamics of Atlanta.
Bostock’s engagements went beyond Creative Loafing. Throughout his career, he contributed to various other Atlanta publications, including the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Sunday Magazine and Georgia Trend. But Creative Loafing remained his home base, where he continuously returned, each comeback met with open arms.
One of Bostock’s remarkable qualities was his empathy. He had an uncanny ability to authentically capture people’s essence, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses alike. His writings celebrated eccentricities and ensured the marginalized voices of society were heard. He was particularly drawn to what some might call the “weird,” understanding that these peculiarities were what made life richer.
Bostock’s notability also stems from being among the first to document the stories of Southern outsider artists who would later gain significant recognition. His nights spent at Howard Finster’s Paradise Garden and his relationship with St. EOM at Pasaquan speak volumes about his commitment to uncovering extraordinary stories long before mainstream recognition.
A critical aspect of his work was his unflinching honesty. Whether it was reviewing a restaurant or scrutinizing societal injustices, Bostock’s writing remained brutally sincere. This honesty was also evident in his discussions on the early HIV/AIDS epidemic and his reflections on Atlanta Pride’s fifty-year history.
His personal interactions often mirrored his professional demeanor. His friends and colleagues remember candid conversations and his always-insightful advice. His editor once recalled, “Every read by Cliff Bostock was a good read. Whether you agreed with him or not.” This sentiment encapsulates the respect he garnered throughout his career.
Before his passing, Bostock faced health challenges, including a brain tumor that puzzled doctors. Despite these difficulties, he remained intellectually engaged, discussing topics ranging from his legacy to personal challenges. Interestingly, he never kept copies of his writings, a testament to his philosophy of living in the present.
Cliff Bostock leaves behind a void in Atlanta’s literary and journalistic community. His razor-sharp wit, astute observations, and deep empathy will be sorely missed. In his absence, the city reflects on the profound impact he had, from making readers laugh and cry to making them think deeply about the world around them.
Rest in peace, Cliff. Your voice may be gone, but your words will forever resonate.
