Hitch-22: A Memoir - Christopher Hitchens in conversation with Austin Dacey, June 13, 2010

During the brief speaking tour to promote his memoir, Hitch-22, Christopher Hitchens spoke with Austin Dacey before a hometown crowd in Washington, DC at the Historic Sixth & I Synagogue on June 13, 2010. His sudden illness was announced shortly afterwards.

Christopher Hitchens is my favorite writer. Recording this video was a great opportunity to meet my hero, who didn't disappoint. His work meant a great deal to me, and losing him was very terrible. I kept this video to myself for ten years to hang onto some piece of him, but I'm now happy to share this recording with everyone.

The event was held on an unusually humid and hot day, and the inadequate air conditioning and stage lights added to the speaker's discomfort. Hitchens looks like he's baking but everyone in there was moderately uncomfortable. I think he held up well in the spotlight, with the private knowledge that he was facing a serious crisis. The last few minutes are actually my favorite moments, where he warmly greets his book's buyers with kind glances and smiles. Long Live Christopher Hitchens!