1982, American Masters Foundation, Houston, Texas

Written by Gary C. Dickey
Illustrated by Jim Harrison

In his introduction to the book, Dickey writes: "Of all the impressions one might get from a visit with Jim Harrison, it is a picture of determination and drive, tempered with quiet understanding. One discovers quickly that here is a man who understands the old verities, the truths that make life worth the struggle it sometimes is. But at the same time, there is melancholy sadness which pervades any relationship with the artist. It is a sadness borne by the realization of the deeper task to which the artist is committed: to capture the moment and hold back, if only briefly, the flood of time. Certainly no one is capable of doing that, but there is a dignity in striving to do so, and Jim's art comes as close as anything can." William Emerson, former editor of "Saturday Evening Post," commented, "By recreating this lost world, Gary Dickey helps us understand the vision of the artist. Together, the reporter and the painter capture the fading magic of the small town South."