Author and journalist Christopher Hitchens talks about his recent memoir, "Hitch-22" and some of his other books, including "God is Not Great" and "The Trial of Henry Kissinger."
@missopowers, yes! Same with me. 💔 I think him very close to my heart. A man I would be happy to think as a father! And the pain I get to think that he is no more, is somewhat same as losing a real father. 😢
There was another video of him where Richard Dawkins delivered a long and beautiful intro to Hitchens. I was fighting my tears while watching that video. I think it was titled something like “Christopher Hitchens, his last public appearance”.
You and MILLIONS of rebellious others chose this man and the like and rejected God in Christ JESUS!!! Remember that you have made your choice to join him into HELL where he is certainly NOT Resting!!! God is NEVER Mocked. You reap what you sow, and HE ALWAYS LAUGHS LAST!!! Proverbs 1:22-32.
A man so riddled with cancer, yet he still carries whit and dignity like broadsword. I am forever grateful that this man existed in a time where we were able to document so much of his wisdom. I know he would dissent with this view, but to me, he is well and truly a legend. I know there are many like me who were able to unshackle themselves from religion, entirely because he game them the tools to do it. I hope in his final months and days he was able to find comfort in that.
WISDOM without God-JESUS is Lucifer Satan The Devil's wisdom, which spells deceptions, confusions, and Hellfire!!! See Holy Bible Proverbs 1:22-32, Job 28:28. The man is A Real Fool (Psalm 14:1) and has produced millions like him -- all heading for HELL where he is NOT Resting In Peace at all!!!
I've known about him for years, but just really discovered his brilliance about a week ago through RUclips. I feeling I've lost someone I've only just found.
@@phillipgreenan3070 Reading and listening to him, made me able to come out of Jehova's witnesess and gain free thought, a gift that I would'nt give away for anything
racist statement by Harris, we all now of his disdain of Muslims. Harris, whose thoughts are not all that original and just a rehash of old existential philosophical arguments
I know exactly how he feels. I may be starting my second journey with this horrible disease based on my biopsy coming up. RIP Christopher we really miss you! 🕊️🕊️🕊️🌈🌈🌈🌹🌹🌹♥️
I always liked seeing these guys together. Hitchens is truly a genius, but Brian Lamb deserves credit for his solid, unbiased and very direct interviewing style. He has always demonstrated real composure and respect for his guests whilst not shying away from asked the kind of pointed and direct questions to which any viewer would really want to hear the answers. Such fine gentlemen, the both of them.
I came from Ecuador (a country with a incredible fanatic catholic belief) always struggling to believe what I was thought since I was a child, so I couldn’t be more thankful that I found, in some way too late, the existence of Christopher Hitchens. Hitch is the clear example of what it means to be a good human being with out religion. How to keep and fight for what you think is right even if the truth might be seen as mean to other people. I came to the US not knowing a word of English now I found myself navigating into the rich speaking english of Christopher and that makes me feel so proud. Thank you Hitch!!!!
The difference between a good human being without religion and one is dependent on obeying the law to the letter. That assumes the law is good. Assuming that humans follow a normal distribution around obeying the law - I still prefer the oxytocin high of singing hymns. It's tough to get that in a non-alcoholic karaoke bar.
What is fascinating is that despite the main topic of this interview being death and weakness and loss, the impression of Hitch is of overwhelming mental strength and determination. He doesn't back down one inch, and that was one of the most compelling and great things about him.
This man taught me so much. His honesty and ability to put his arguments in debate across without animosity, his inexhaustible well of knowledge and his bravery in coping with the cause of his premature death should be an example to everyone. He was a truly great man.
@@messiahapostle8239 If you truly believe in a god who sentences anyone who disagrees or goes against his wishes to an eternity of torture, I feel truly sorry for you.
One of the great things about christopher hitchens was how passionate he was for the fundamentals of conversation and debate. He always made sure he answered a question directed at him even if he digressed he returned to the original line of questioning and made an effort to give a thorough answer. Hitch helped me realize my position on religion and spirituality and brought me a big step closer to clarity. RIP Hitch. I hope you were right and I hope you knew before you passed that you touched many hearts and many minds.
Man o man , how I miss that man. He's always been a huge influence. I believe this world still needs this man around. To bad he's gone. He will be missed. I don't get tired of watching his videos over and over again. He's that inspirational to me.
So often nowadays something happens which makes me wonder what Hitch would have thought/said. It makes me sad that I was too young to appreciate him during his life, but I’m immensely grateful that there exists such a vast catalogue of footage by which to remember him.
What is most sad is that he was such a rare person. Especially rare if even minutely existent in the 2020’s . Frankly, I think he would have HATED the times, these 2020’s and the people he would have had to live among, write about and comment on. He probably died at the perfect time because as the world has slid its slimey rapid slippery slope he likely would have fallen into uncharacteristic depression. That or been “suicided” or something clever that the five eyes believe they do so cleverly. It is sadly amusing though that he trusted Dr Francis Collins. Obvious desperation.
A monumental intellect, a true free spirit and free thinker, and the very definition of a learned, but dogged contrarian. I rank him in the same class as Stephen Fry, Richard Feynman, Freeman Dyson, Enrico Fermi, and Carl Sagan. He was truly A Man For All Seasons.
I am 64 years old and would feel cheated if I had to go soon. I imagine Christopher felt that there was so much more to write about and speak about at this time. I wish I would have known more about him 10 years ago so I could have written him a letter.
First comment? Okay... Mr. Hitchens, you're certainly an inspiration to me, and I'm sure, many, many other people. You've done the commendable action of adding your voice to the great play of Western Civilization, and many have be enriched by your lines - through your articles, books and public appearances. Your voice of reason is ever unflinching, no matter how often it is shouted down or decried. When you go (as we all do), you shall be sorely missed.
I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in April of 2015. Came out of the treatments in September 2016. Oral, lost 100 lbs. It was a very dark period. Have had several scope/check-ups for the past 4 years. Doing well so far. Is anyone really safe from this disease? I love listening to this fellow, always have. Christopher was so intelligent, so quick witted, like no one I've ever seen. I also believe he was a good person...no, a really good person who cared about other people regardless of ethnicity or social status. Would it not be sad or disappointing if God would not welcome Hitch with open arms?
Hate to break it to you, but there is zero proof that deities exist. But, good news: if you are buried, eventually the same flora and fauna you dined on will dine on you, theus completing and continuing the cycle of life.
This is so heartbreaking to watch yet the compelling and engaging Hitch charisma makes me so thankful for his generosity and frankness is sharing this chapter of this life.
If you think this is touching, watch his interview with Jeremy Paxman- the usually unflappable, hard-headed Paxman is clearly moved at the very end when he thanks Hitchens for the interview. It's incredibly slight from Paxman, but very noticeable to anyone who knows him as an interviewer.
I’ve had the pleasure of binging hours upon hours of Hitchens C-Span interviews. Then came upon this. I’m not going to lie-I broke. He left us far too soon.
There’s never been or will be another Hitchens. Brilliant in all fields but the articulate charm & debating skills is & was entrancing . Few could hold an audience like this hugely missed man.
Thank you Chris for teaching me and the world so much. You were one of a kind. Your legacy will live on. Your spirit of insight will never be forgotten.
Your feelings are shared by many. As one long time fan of CHRISTOPHER, I feel obligated to point out; and as another fan of CHRISTOPHER, I thought you'd like to know: that he hated being called (sic) "Chris." 😉
The two things that always hit me hardest when I watch this is Christopher Hitchens encouraging people not to hesitate writing a letter to someone they care about. Second is when he talks about his willingness and desire to use his body for the purpose of advancing science. He quotes this idea of shame being the appropriate feeling when looking at yourself until you've done something for humanity. That part always hits me so hard. I think I understand what he means when he says that. But when I think of Christopher Hitchens, it's predominantly attached to this feeling of awe and happiness that energizes me in a way that religion never did. Neither did the desperate, albeit blisteringly fast, rush of injecting amphetamines ever provide me with that feeling. It seems to me that his life's work is a brilliant, important, and monumental amount of effort given to humanity. There's a very short list of names of people from the past who's influence shapes our understanding of humanity. That list gets shorter when you look at the names of those who's influence isn't tarnished by greed, power, corruption, or cowardice. I love the ability Christopher Hitchens had to understand what he talked about, understand the opposing view, and communicate in an entertaining and persuasive matter that made sense. That put him on a level all by himself compared to the best the world had to offer at the time while he was here.
This man Christopher had something that the intellectual world hasn't often seen . Truly the GOAT of modern day thinkers . His ability to expertly reference complex examples on the fly is stuff of legend .
Have listened to his clarifying wisdom on so many subjects for years and will continue to do so for the rest of my days. Nobody wipes the windows of humanity so clearly as he did.
His stoicism had an unparalleled truth in it, even in his last days. I feel so grateful (to youtube I suppose) for having "met" this extraordinary human being! I 'm 100% percent sure he would by now (2020) have a youtube channel of his own with millions of views and comments had he not died. Miss you very much Mr. Hitchens!
I cannot watch this, it breaks my heart to see our beloved Hitch so ill 💔 how brilliantly he shone, like a supernova before his light was extinguished forever 😢 miss him every day
Interviewer and interviewee are a combination that make this series of interviews fascinating. It's been a few years since these wonderful talk sessions, and Mr. Hitchens, riddled with cancer, as he was, never lost one iota of his incredible intellect, and his appearances were always completely captivating. He will always be missed. The very thought that I may have seen everything that he had to say publicly is depressing and very sad. Christopher Hitchens cannot and will not ever be replaced.
I am so sorry that Christopher Hitchens is gone. I miss him so much, because he was honest and such a good and intelligent man. He really wanted the best for humanity.
Not knowing of this man and his breadth of knowledge while he was alive is cause for regret. We are lucky to have his written/spoken works and the youtube time machine.
Virtually impossible not to shed a tear upon viewing this for the first time....... he taught us how to live well and how to understand the things that confuse us and cause us fear...... then he showed us how to die well...... if there is any semblance of an afterlife at all one would only hope to find Mr Hitchens somewhere among the worthy with that cheeky smile and a welcoming comment perhaps such as...... welcome ....we have been expecting you...... and there is still work to do.....R.I.P......
I'm not an atheist, but I have to admit, and even to myself, I have a huge amount of respect for Hitchens, we might not have the same religious views, but he spoke his mind and he did it in such an natural way. Whenever he talks, he is talking like himself, he doesn't sound professional, reckless, or blank, he actually sounds like himself, that shows character.
Christopher Hitchens is one of the very few famous people I really wish I could've met. Besides his brilliant mind, I've always believed he was genuinely a very good and decent person. I'm sorry he's gone.
The softy in me assumes that when the camera's cut, both men embraced in a heartfelt hug and shared a tear, even if it was minuscule. I miss you Hitch. Brian is a true gentleman and legend in his profession, from across the pond, thank you.
Such gentle and yet ferocious intellect and eloquence. A person to be admired, an attitude to aspire. RIP. He makes me wish for a hereafter, filled with energetic debate and disagreement.
What an intellect, such forthrightness and sharpness, and complete honesty about himself and the topics at hand. A voice like his would be nice to have in these times.
My Dad died of pancreatic cancer in stage 4 which is stealthily insidious considering stages 1, 2 and 3 eluded doctors over the course of 6 months during multiple hospital stints. To see this about one of the greatest intellectuals of our time is so sad.
K Russell I am from Yemen, I only knew he existed via RUclips. if I'd lived in the US, I would've made that unforgettable trip to where he was and get a signature
He is not one of these morose and fake intellectual like Chris Hedges.. He is really amazing, even if English is your native language, to your amazement to find out how limited your vocabulary is everytime you listen to Hitchens. RIP.. You will be greatly missed.
I’ve been a fan since 2007, currently enjoying this sequence of interviews, rather than the more general, in his other latter years, debates as an atheist. It’s been fascinating listening to the intellect in him, discuss all other topics.
A great man, that was very outspoken about human rights violations and religious arrogance around the world, a modern day Thomas Paine in so... many ways, I'm very glad that he was an author and journalist, so that he can be read by future generations.
Right, he was outspoken about human rights that's why he supported the Iraq war which killed well over 100,000 civilians (some estimate over 1 million). The killings, death and instability continue on over 11 years later.
vishnudestroyer He supported dethroning a butcher named Saddam Hussein. He did not believe the war was handled properly. But knowing that would involve actually paying attention, or doing anything but regurgitating something you heard someone else say.
It wouldn't have mattered how the war was handled it was always going to destabilise the region and leave it open to violent fanatics. It is clear to everyone in the world now that the Iraq war was a mistake, we wouldn't have the influx of millions of people into Europe without it.
This may be one if Hitchins' last interviews and he was so articulate and dignified as he always was. The deterioration is rather striking compared his voice from presentations played back in the video. I have watched many interviews and debates and talks by Christopher and he has made me a better person. Christopher Hitchins lived through the rest of 2011 after this interview until December 16, 2011. I'm so grateful as many others are that Hitchins lived on in these videos.
As I understand it, he was at MD Anderson cancer center and quietly slipped away due to complications of pneumonia. So I think he fell asleep and never awakened. It wasn’t a tortured death.
Just seen this, always respected this man and his intellect and the way he talked about how he felt and what he believed in, he put into words what I feel about a lot of issues especially religion, had tears running down my face when I watched this, sadly missed.
Where will you all spend eternity? That is the pressing question. John 3:16-18 It's all on how you choose respond to that. "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life."-Jesus
@@pinknachas324 gifts are supposed to be free butthead,,,,,if there ever was a god of a sound mind he would let all people live in bliss,,,,it is suckers like you that feel you have to pass a made up test to the afterlife.Wake up dude,,,when you die its really lights out
A giant among men. His importance in the fight against the evils of religion and corrupt people lives on. Imagine having to debate this man on anything... you just concede before it starts.
and this brilliant man is so tolerante of these prying, indiscreet, "concierge" like questions! besides that though, agh! Why must the good die so young! Too soon in any event. And we do so need his voice today! Let us keep him close in mind as we endeavor to be his companion - his fellow traveler - in enquiry and in deed.
Never a supporter of Mr. Hitchen's political ideology. I grew to respect his dedication and honesty. RIP Your lifes work had a impact, I believe a positive impact.
This man is sorely needed in 2023...
Ten years and it still makes me cry to see him so ill. I'll always miss him.
gone when he is needed the most. his loss is devastating
His mind never became ill. He was as lucid as ever.
@missopowers, yes! Same with me. 💔
I think him very close to my heart. A man I would be happy to think as a father! And the pain I get to think that he is no more, is somewhat same as losing a real father. 😢
There was another video of him where Richard Dawkins delivered a long and beautiful intro to Hitchens. I was fighting my tears while watching that video. I think it was titled something like “Christopher Hitchens, his last public appearance”.
You and MILLIONS of rebellious others chose this man and the like and rejected God in Christ JESUS!!! Remember that you have made your choice to join him into HELL where he is certainly NOT Resting!!! God is NEVER Mocked. You reap what you sow, and HE ALWAYS LAUGHS LAST!!! Proverbs 1:22-32.
This man is a legend...a bright mind, cutting wit, charisma. The world lost a great treasure.
Very grateful to Brian Lamb and C-Span for giving us so many hours of Hitch.
Hitch gave so many hours to Brian because he recognized him as a great journalist and interviewer.
@@uncletony6210 How true ! Every hour spent with Hitch is an hour worth spending..
A man so riddled with cancer, yet he still carries whit and dignity like broadsword. I am forever grateful that this man existed in a time where we were able to document so much of his wisdom. I know he would dissent with this view, but to me, he is well and truly a legend. I know there are many like me who were able to unshackle themselves from religion, entirely because he game them the tools to do it. I hope in his final months and days he was able to find comfort in that.
Congratulations on your unshackling. Where and with whom do you sing now to get your oxytocin treatment?
WISDOM without God-JESUS is Lucifer Satan The Devil's wisdom, which spells deceptions, confusions, and Hellfire!!! See Holy Bible Proverbs 1:22-32, Job 28:28. The man is A Real Fool (Psalm 14:1) and has produced millions like him -- all heading for HELL where he is NOT Resting In Peace at all!!!
No one else like him. A legend. We miss you Christopher.
Very much
I've known about him for years, but just really discovered his brilliance about a week ago through RUclips. I feeling I've lost someone I've only just found.
"The thing about stage 4... is that there is no stage 5." Legend.
This man has changed my life. Thank you, Hitch.
i've spent the whole of lockdown listening to his brilliance.
@@phillipgreenan3070 Reading and listening to him, made me able to come out of Jehova's witnesess and gain free thought, a gift that I would'nt give away for anything
@@g1hagen87 And you will be better for it. Very happy for you, internet stranger.
Same here. 😊
"The man had more wit, style and substance than a few civilizations I could name" - Sam Harris
L9m9jm
racist statement by Harris, we all now of his disdain of Muslims. Harris, whose thoughts are not all that original and just a rehash of old existential philosophical arguments
@@fitnesspoint2006
Define racism.
@@fitnesspoint2006 damn you're clueless
What a well constructed criticism over a quote. Calling out racism like this infantilizes the real struggle people go through. But you do you m'dude.
I am almost 70. How could I have not have heard of this man until a few weeks ago? What an inspiration he is!
Same here Don and now I've found him I can't get enough of this great man.
I’m 21 and the same for me being honest most days the world drags me down and this guy manages to bring me out of it everytime
Better late than never. Glad you found him.
@@dylanmcwhirter9844 I'm 26 and I got to know him 1 years before he passed. I was 12 watching his videos.
Lol three days ago here. I've been saving and watching a lot of his lectures, interviews.
I've recommended this to my 16-year old son, because I want him to see what real courage is.
The only thing preventing me from tearing up watching this is that Hitch wouldn't want me to...
I was stoic till 28:46. Then I broke.
Me too
Shut up
I know exactly how he feels. I may be starting my second journey with this horrible disease based on my biopsy coming up. RIP Christopher we really miss you! 🕊️🕊️🕊️🌈🌈🌈🌹🌹🌹♥️
Christopher was and IS still so deeply loved and admired. Incalculable loss. It still hurts so much that he’s not here.
It hurts so good.
A man who was utterly incapable of being boring
I always liked seeing these guys together. Hitchens is truly a genius, but Brian Lamb deserves credit for his solid, unbiased and very direct interviewing style. He has always demonstrated real composure and respect for his guests whilst not shying away from asked the kind of pointed and direct questions to which any viewer would really want to hear the answers. Such fine gentlemen, the both of them.
Precisely Mr.. Conner!!
I agree. Brian Lamb did a great job as an interviewer. I loved watching him.
I came from Ecuador (a country with a incredible fanatic catholic belief) always struggling to believe what I was thought since I was a child, so I couldn’t be more thankful that I found, in some way too late, the existence of Christopher Hitchens. Hitch is the clear example of what it means to be a good human being with out religion. How to keep and fight for what you think is right even if the truth might be seen as mean to other people. I came to the US not knowing a word of English now I found myself navigating into the rich speaking english of Christopher and that makes me feel so proud. Thank you Hitch!!!!
Hi. I am glad to read that you, too, admire C. Hitchens. I was wondering if there is any literature in Spanish that you would recommend me reading?
@@eddiejohnston1853 *..* May I recommend Noli me Tangere by Dr. Jose Rizal. A satire against the church, English version is “ Touch me not”.
@@joaquinmisajr.1215 thank you!
The difference between a good human being without religion and one is dependent on obeying the law to the letter. That assumes the law is good. Assuming that humans follow a normal distribution around obeying the law - I still prefer the oxytocin high of singing hymns. It's tough to get that in a non-alcoholic karaoke bar.
Hitch's integrity, wit, and courage shines through even in the face of death. What a role model for a generation. 😢
What is fascinating is that despite the main topic of this interview being death and weakness and loss, the impression of Hitch is of overwhelming mental strength and determination. He doesn't back down one inch, and that was one of the most compelling and great things about him.
Extremely well said.
This man taught me so much. His honesty and ability to put his arguments in debate across without animosity, his inexhaustible well of knowledge and his bravery in coping with the cause of his premature death should be an example to everyone. He was a truly great man.
I hope he didn't teach you to Not Believe in JESUS Christ and live Holy, otherwise you must end up into HELL like him!!! Proverbs 1:22-32.
@@messiahapostle8239
If you truly believe in a god who sentences anyone who disagrees or goes against his wishes to an eternity of torture, I feel truly sorry for you.
One of the great things about christopher hitchens was how passionate he was for the fundamentals of conversation and debate. He always made sure he answered a question directed at him even if he digressed he returned to the original line of questioning and made an effort to give a thorough answer. Hitch helped me realize my position on religion and spirituality and brought me a big step closer to clarity. RIP Hitch. I hope you were right and I hope you knew before you passed that you touched many hearts and many minds.
Man o man , how I miss that man. He's always been a huge influence. I believe this world still needs this man around. To bad he's gone. He will be missed.
I don't get tired of watching his videos over and over again. He's that inspirational to me.
So often nowadays something happens which makes me wonder what Hitch would have thought/said. It makes me sad that I was too young to appreciate him during his life, but I’m immensely grateful that there exists such a vast catalogue of footage by which to remember him.
We had one Hitch but today because of his efforts they are many Hitches!
What is most sad is that he was such a rare person. Especially rare if even minutely existent in the 2020’s .
Frankly, I think he would have HATED the times, these 2020’s and the people he would have had to live among, write about and comment on. He probably died at the perfect time because as the world has slid its slimey rapid slippery slope he likely would have fallen into uncharacteristic depression. That or been “suicided” or something clever that the five eyes believe they do so cleverly.
It is sadly amusing though that he trusted Dr Francis Collins. Obvious desperation.
At that stage and yet he was still on fire and spot on and still able to illuminate our minds with what went on in his.
A monumental intellect, a true free spirit and free thinker, and the very definition of a learned, but dogged contrarian. I rank him in the same class as Stephen Fry, Richard Feynman, Freeman Dyson, Enrico Fermi, and Carl Sagan. He was truly A Man For All Seasons.
Totally agree. Not only is Hitchens missed, but Carl Sagan most definitely is, too.
With the exception of Carl Sagan, Hitch was head and shoulders above everyone else, in a league of his own.
A very endearing interview which is sincere and nostalgic and somewhat melancholy, but wonderful still. Quite the gentleman Mr. Hitchins was
I am 64 years old and would feel cheated if I had to go soon. I imagine Christopher felt that there was so much more to write about and speak about at this time. I wish I would have known more about him 10 years ago so I could have written him a letter.
Here's hoping you live a 100 years!
He died without receiving that letter - to live without that letter is never to have lived at all.
This guy was so frigging smart. No one can fill his shoes. RIP.
one of the most intelligent men who ever lived
First comment? Okay... Mr. Hitchens, you're certainly an inspiration to me, and I'm sure, many, many other people. You've done the commendable action of adding your voice to the great play of Western Civilization, and many have be enriched by your lines - through your articles, books and public appearances. Your voice of reason is ever unflinching, no matter how often it is shouted down or decried. When you go (as we all do), you shall be sorely missed.
I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in April of 2015. Came out of the treatments in September 2016. Oral, lost 100 lbs. It was a very dark period. Have had several scope/check-ups for the past 4 years. Doing well so far. Is anyone really safe from this disease? I love listening to this fellow, always have. Christopher was so intelligent, so quick witted, like no one I've ever seen. I also believe he was a good person...no, a really good person who cared about other people regardless of ethnicity or social status. Would it not be sad or disappointing if God would not welcome Hitch with open arms?
I don’t think he expected God to greet him given that he was the most eloquent atheist in recent memory.
Hate to break it to you, but there is zero proof that deities exist. But, good news: if you are buried, eventually the same flora and fauna you dined on will dine on you, theus completing and continuing the cycle of life.
This is so heartbreaking to watch yet the compelling and engaging Hitch charisma makes me so thankful for his generosity and frankness is sharing this chapter of this life.
If you think this is touching, watch his interview with Jeremy Paxman- the usually unflappable, hard-headed Paxman is clearly moved at the very end when he thanks Hitchens for the interview. It's incredibly slight from Paxman, but very noticeable to anyone who knows him as an interviewer.
What a fucking hero for simple humanity. I don´t want to cry but by god his dignity is overwhelming.
***** Less of the God talk ;)
+Matthew Singh-Dosanjh So the word god can't simply be used as a narrative device for a sentence anymore?
MrAdstringo
No. I didn't even hint at suggesting that. What are you babbling about?
What are you then? Where's the god talk in Orl Cal's comment
+MrAdstringo haha indeed wtf is wrong with u matthew
One of a kind - still miss him - RIP Christopher Hitchens
what an inspiration for cancer survivors and certainly those who still suffer from such a dreadful disease
I’ve had the pleasure of binging hours upon hours of Hitchens C-Span interviews. Then came upon this. I’m not going to lie-I broke. He left us far too soon.
There’s never been or will be another Hitchens. Brilliant in all fields but the articulate charm & debating skills is & was entrancing . Few could hold an audience like this hugely missed man.
"it is Brian isnt it ?" - what a great joke to crack at a time when most people would be very down. What a man you are Christopher
That was a very English joke
and Brian's giggle.. great exchange between old friends
Made me tear up. Their last exchange after knowing each other for so many years.
Thank you Chris for teaching me and the world so much. You were one of a kind. Your legacy will live on. Your spirit of insight will never be forgotten.
Your feelings are shared by many. As one long time fan of CHRISTOPHER, I feel obligated to point out; and as another fan of CHRISTOPHER, I thought you'd like to know: that he hated being called (sic) "Chris." 😉
Yes it's CHRISTOPHER lol!!!!
The two things that always hit me hardest when I watch this is Christopher Hitchens encouraging people not to hesitate writing a letter to someone they care about.
Second is when he talks about his willingness and desire to use his body for the purpose of advancing science. He quotes this idea of shame being the appropriate feeling when looking at yourself until you've done something for humanity.
That part always hits me so hard. I think I understand what he means when he says that. But when I think of Christopher Hitchens, it's predominantly attached to this feeling of awe and happiness that energizes me in a way that religion never did. Neither did the desperate, albeit blisteringly fast, rush of injecting amphetamines ever provide me with that feeling.
It seems to me that his life's work is a brilliant, important, and monumental amount of effort given to humanity.
There's a very short list of names of people from the past who's influence shapes our understanding of humanity. That list gets shorter when you look at the names of those who's influence isn't tarnished by greed, power, corruption, or cowardice.
I love the ability Christopher Hitchens had to understand what he talked about, understand the opposing view, and communicate in an entertaining and persuasive matter that made sense. That put him on a level all by himself compared to the best the world had to offer at the time while he was here.
February 2021 and I keep watching interviews of this great man.
This man Christopher had something that the intellectual world hasn't often seen . Truly the GOAT of modern day thinkers . His ability to expertly reference complex examples on the fly is stuff of legend .
I've listened to him for years on and off but just can't stop at tye moment. Probably because we are all so thirsty for intelligence and/or integrity.
Have listened to his clarifying wisdom on so many subjects for years and will continue to do so for the rest of my days. Nobody wipes the windows of humanity so clearly as he did.
Beautifully worded. Thanks.
I'd love to have met this guy - terrific loss to English speaking culture
@Jazzkeyboardist1 I've seen you on nearly every single video of Hitchens on youtube slandering him. Get a life
True that
I wish I could have given him my life so he could continue with his amazing mission. I miss him
His stoicism had an unparalleled truth in it, even in his last days. I feel so grateful (to youtube I suppose) for having "met" this extraordinary human being! I 'm 100% percent sure he would by now (2020) have a youtube channel of his own with millions of views and comments had he not died. Miss you very much Mr. Hitchens!
Ditto.
One of my all time favorites forever. Miss you hitch. We need you now more than ever.
He had a WONDERFUL life because he offered us so much insight and wisdom.
I cannot watch this, it breaks my heart to see our beloved Hitch so ill 💔 how brilliantly he shone, like a supernova before his light was extinguished forever 😢 miss him every day
Interviewer and interviewee are a combination that make this series of interviews fascinating. It's been a few years since these wonderful talk sessions, and Mr. Hitchens, riddled with cancer, as he was, never lost one iota of his incredible intellect, and his appearances were always completely captivating. He will always be missed. The very thought that I may have seen everything that he had to say publicly is depressing and very sad. Christopher Hitchens cannot and will not ever be replaced.
I am so sorry that Christopher Hitchens is gone. I miss him so much, because he was honest and such a good and intelligent man. He really wanted the best for humanity.
Not knowing of this man and his breadth of knowledge while he was alive is cause for regret. We are lucky to have his written/spoken works and the youtube time machine.
Virtually impossible not to shed a tear upon viewing this for the first time....... he taught us how to live well and how to understand the things that confuse us and cause us fear...... then he showed us how to die well...... if there is any semblance of an afterlife at all one would only hope to find Mr Hitchens somewhere among the worthy with that cheeky smile and a welcoming comment perhaps such as...... welcome ....we have been expecting you...... and there is still work to do.....R.I.P......
I'm not an atheist, but I have to admit, and even to myself, I have a huge amount of respect for Hitchens, we might not have the same religious views, but he spoke his mind and he did it in such an natural way. Whenever he talks, he is talking like himself, he doesn't sound professional, reckless, or blank, he actually sounds like himself, that shows character.
It’s so hard to watch him like this. It’s heartbreaking!
& inspiring. I hope that I have such stoicism in the lead-up to becoming immortality-challenged.
dont worry you will kick the bucket one day as well
Breaks my heart...
Still..
Christopher Hitchens is one of the very few famous people I really wish I could've met. Besides his brilliant mind, I've always believed he was genuinely a very good and decent person. I'm sorry he's gone.
Thank for this human portrait of an immense intellect.
I miss this wonderful man so much 😢
Wonderful. Still feel that loss.
The softy in me assumes that when the camera's cut, both men embraced in a heartfelt hug and shared a tear, even if it was minuscule. I miss you Hitch. Brian is a true gentleman and legend in his profession, from across the pond, thank you.
Such gentle and yet ferocious intellect and eloquence. A person to be admired, an attitude to aspire. RIP. He makes me wish for a hereafter, filled with energetic debate and disagreement.
What an intellect, such forthrightness and sharpness, and complete honesty about himself and the topics at hand. A voice like his would be nice to have in these times.
This is so hard to watch... we were robbed of him far too soon. Rest in peace, Christopher. I hope the whiskey's fantastic, where ever you are.
I can't even make it through 10 minutes. I had to got back to an interview between the two from 20 years earlier.
The peat certainly helps the flavour
Thats a great interviewer. He listens to the answer and does not interrupt all the time like the look at me look at me interviewer's,
What a great interviewer! Short, searching questions to the point! Well done Brian sir!....
My Dad died of pancreatic cancer in stage 4 which is stealthily insidious considering stages 1, 2 and 3 eluded doctors over the course of 6 months during multiple hospital stints. To see this about one of the greatest intellectuals of our time is so sad.
For those of you suggesting Vanity Fair is a fashion magazine(!??) suggest you buy a copy.
How interesting. Thanks for taking this interview, Mr. Hitchens.
Best wishes to you.
He lived more than any of us.
Miss him. Actually thought I'd bump in to him at a book signing or a talk - it was on my list... Such a big regret.
RIP Hitch. x
K Russell I am from Yemen, I only knew he existed via RUclips. if I'd lived in the US, I would've made that unforgettable trip to where he was and get a signature
He is not one of these morose and fake intellectual like Chris Hedges.. He is really amazing, even if English is your native language, to your amazement to find out how limited your vocabulary is everytime you listen to Hitchens. RIP.. You will be greatly missed.
I find it wonderful that they have respect for each other....!! Christopher is such a missed man...!
I’ve been a fan since 2007, currently enjoying this sequence of interviews, rather than the more general, in his other latter years, debates as an atheist.
It’s been fascinating listening to the intellect in him, discuss all other topics.
Gave more than enough to humanity and individually.
A great man, that was very outspoken about human rights violations and religious arrogance around the world, a modern day Thomas Paine in so... many ways, I'm very glad that he was an author and journalist, so that he can be read by future generations.
Right, he was outspoken about human rights that's why he supported the Iraq war which killed well over 100,000 civilians (some estimate over 1 million). The killings, death and instability continue on over 11 years later.
vishnudestroyer He supported dethroning a butcher named Saddam Hussein. He did not believe the war was handled properly. But knowing that would involve actually paying attention, or doing anything but regurgitating something you heard someone else say.
It wouldn't have mattered how the war was handled it was always going to destabilise the region and leave it open to violent fanatics. It is clear to everyone in the world now that the Iraq war was a mistake, we wouldn't have the influx of millions of people into Europe without it.
@Jazzkeyboardist1 TROLL!
@@inTHEwrongGENERATION Yes all valid points. But at least the devil incarnate uday hussain is dead!!
This may be one if Hitchins' last interviews and he was so articulate and dignified as he always was. The deterioration is rather striking compared his voice from presentations played back in the video. I have watched many interviews and debates and talks by Christopher and he has made me a better person. Christopher Hitchins lived through the rest of 2011 after this interview until December 16, 2011. I'm so grateful as many others are that Hitchins lived on in these videos.
As I understand it, he was at MD Anderson cancer center and quietly slipped away due to complications of pneumonia. So I think he fell asleep and never awakened. It wasn’t a tortured death.
A true hero fearless until the last moment..
He was a giant & is incredibly missed
Just seen this, always respected this man and his intellect and the way he talked about how he felt and what he believed in, he put into words what I feel about a lot of issues especially religion, had tears running down my face when I watched this, sadly missed.
“I’ll be sixty two in April if I make it that far” that broke my heart :(
Where will you all spend eternity? That is the pressing question.
John 3:16-18 It's all on how you choose respond to that.
"Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life."-Jesus
@@pinknachas324 you quoting from that stupid book with the talking snake,and that fanatical hippy that could turn water into wine?
@@woodytheduke So did you reject Jesus and his free gift of eternal life then? Choose wisely. Eternity they say is a very long time.
@@pinknachas324 gifts are supposed to be free butthead,,,,,if there ever was a god of a sound mind he would let all people live in bliss,,,,it is suckers like you that feel you have to pass a made up test to the afterlife.Wake up dude,,,when you die its really lights out
@@woodytheduke Look up hell NDE. See if you want to be there for eternity. Take care. LMAO.
I miss this man. I'd love to hear him give a spill about the current state of the world.
A giant among men. His importance in the fight against the evils of religion and corrupt people lives on. Imagine having to debate this man on anything... you just concede before it starts.
This man is my hero and I cannot be optimistic about his condition, but...he will be greatly missed
Thank you very, very much.
What a powerful interview from a great man
Wonderful man, truly an inspiration.
I'm going to read hitch 22 as soon as I finish watching this interview
Seeing all of the positive comments here about Hitch makes me a bit emotional. He changed the way I think and I'm glad that I'm not alone.
Rewatching this in 2024
and this brilliant man is so tolerante of these prying, indiscreet, "concierge" like questions! besides that though, agh! Why must the good die so young! Too soon in any event. And we do so need his voice today! Let us keep him close in mind as we endeavor to be his companion - his fellow traveler - in enquiry and in deed.
Quite touching the comment about England at the end, which he would never see again.
I wonder of he did get back to his « home » country? I hope so.
@@swisskiwi1478 Sorry to say that he didn't.
@@Horizon344 Thank you for your reply. I suspected as much. How sad.
Never a supporter of Mr. Hitchen's political ideology. I grew to respect his dedication and honesty.
RIP
Your lifes work had a impact, I believe a positive impact.
Burst out laughing at Hitchens final line, “it is Brian isn’t it?” 😂 Decades of acquaintance between the two as well
More than acquaintance I'd say- Hitchens dedicated one of his books to Lamb (I forget which one, someone will perhaps remind me)
Miss him, for several reasons.
I've been missing him for several seasons in all honesty
Thanks to youtube, his words will live for eternity.
C-SPAN is one of the few TV channels in the whole world that actually deserve to exist.
Lamb: "We don't have much time." Hitchens: "Oh, don't say that!"
Hitchen's book shelves should be a Museum. I would pay to peruse them.