This letter, dated December 9, 1989, was a letter of condolence from my former English teacher in Canton, Massachusetts (and the English teacher of my two brothers), Robert W. Tighe. It was written in response to news of the death of my father, Alan W. Smith, and was addressed to my older brother.
Mr. Tighe was an outstanding teacher of writing. It is interesting to have a sample of his writing. He writes very well, without pomposity. What is notable is the clarity and directness of expression; and how he avoids maudlin sentimentality while writing a forceful, direct letter that both expresses condolences and reflects on one’s mortality.
— Roger W. Smith
December 2015