RE: Buckley

I saw Buckley engaged in a debate/conversation at Middlebury College with the Dalai Lama in 1984 -- an unlikely pairing. At one point, Buckley asked the Dalai Lama a question that must have lasted 90 seconds. At the conclusion of his question, the Dalai Lama smiled, cocked his head, and asked if Buckley could repeat it. Buckley laughed. Though I never agreed with his politics, I give credit to his sense of humor and general eloquence.

Sent by Chris Santella | 2:48 PM ET | 02-27-2008

Dear TOTN --

I understand you want to have guests on to discuss Buckley, but why Bill Kristol? He's anything but a "conservative." He promoted the invasion of Iraq, which is a radical departure from traditional conservative orthodoxy.

It amazes me that NPR still has this guy on at all. How can a person be so consistantly wrong and on every issue and still be called upon to give his opinions?

You can find "conservatives" under any rock you turn, why oh why Bill Kristol again?

Sent by mark feehan | 2:59 PM ET | 02-27-2008

My favorite Buckley moment came more than 40 years ago when he agreed to be a guest on Laugh-In. The show staged a "press conference" in which show regulars asked him questions. The best was his response to why he had agreed to be interviewed by Playboy magazine.

"Because," he said, "I wanted my teenaged son to read it." Classic stuff.

Sent by Rodger Nichols | 3:04 PM ET | 02-27-2008

As an avid sailor, I read Buckley's books on his transatlantic and transpacific cruises, and was impressed by his positive attitude, extensive vocabulary, and passion for sailing and for his friends. When I learned from his last sailing book that one of his close sailing friends, I wrote him a brief note. Much to my surprise, I not only received a response, but a very well-written, personal typed letter. A very class act.

Sent by Larry Meisner | 9:28 PM ET | 02-27-2008

When I was a young girl, God taught me that being a Christian was fun and William Buckley taught me that being a conservative was fun. Sometimes I am not sure to whom I am more grateful.

Sent by Chris Shadwell | 8:58 AM ET | 02-28-2008

WFB was a strong advocate for conservative values, small government and capitalism. He'll be missed and we'll need to find a new WFB for the cause . . . the unique individualism and self responsiblity cause that has made and continues to make America great. RIP WFB.

Sent by Mike Garcia | 5:27 PM ET | 02-28-2008

40 years ago, greed was not simply considered a good thing, nor was a selfish and blind adherence to self-interest.
Buckley's influence goes straight to the mindset of contemporary America. . . which i find deeply unfortunate. Intellectualism is a powerful weapon, for good and evil.

Sent by phil | 2:02 PM ET | 02-29-2008