Todd Goddard has released the first literary biography of Jim Harrison, an acclaimed essayist, novelist, and poet known for his deep connection to the American landscape and his work that includes 21 fiction books and 14 volumes of poetry. Harrison, who spent many years between Patagonia, Arizona, and Livingston, Montana, passed away on March 26, 2016, at the age of 78, while working on an unfinished poem at his desk.
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The biography, titled "Devouring Time: Jim Harrison, a Writer’s Life," will be launched at an event hosted by Elk River Books and Elk River Arts & Lectures on Thursday, November 5 at 6 p.m., featuring a reception followed by a discussion and book signing at 7 p.m. Goddard will engage in conversation with Harrison’s longtime poetry editor, Joseph Bednarik.
Goddard, a longtime reader of Harrison's work, developed a personal connection to Harrison’s life and writing that inspired him to pursue the biography after studying under noted biographer Ken Silverman at New York University. His research was conducted during the pandemic, leading him to travel across the country to interview over 100 individuals connected with Harrison, including friends and family.
The title "Devouring Time" is derived from Shakespeare’s Sonnet 19, which reflects themes of time and mortality that resonate with Goddard's portrayal of Harrison. Goddard noted that the title encapsulates Harrison's vast experiences and affectionate relationship with life, emphasizing his appetite for both literature and the world.
One pivotal chapter in Harrison’s life, which Goddard addresses, was the loss of his father and sister in a 1962 car accident—an event that deeply impacted Harrison’s psyche and creative output. Goddard suggests that this tragedy led Harrison to embrace writing more seriously, viewing life’s unpredictability as a call to action.
In addition to his literary accomplishments, Harrison was recognized in France, where he found a particularly enthusiastic readership. Goddard speculates that Harrison’s personality, humor, and connections to American myths made his work appealing to French audiences.
Harrison, who once described his identity as primarily a poet, deeply engaged with nature in his writing, often reflecting a sacred connection to the environment. Goddard highlights how Harrison's upbringing and faith informed his literary voice, while also acknowledging his spiritual complexity.
Goddard transitioned from a law career to a focus on literary studies, working towards a Ph.D. and ultimately becoming an associate professor at Utah Valley University. The journey to write Harrison’s biography began when he felt the timing was right, coinciding with his tenure at the university. Harrison’s passion for words and the serious attention he gave to poetry continue to resonate in Goddard's exploration of his life.