Vol. XLV No. 179 Summer 2004
A prominent American intellectual, Hamalian was editor of Ararat from 1972-2003. This 156-page book-sized volume, edited by Linda Hamalian and Aram Arkun, is an extensive collection of Hamalian's fiction, poetry, literary criticism, and prose pieces on culture and politics. Hamalian's writing is wry and entertaining, even while treating the most serious of topics. Selections deal with his Armenian experiences, the turbulence of America in the 1960s and 1970s, and important films and writers. The ararat issue contains a biographical essay by Linda Hamalian focusing on Leo's early years, and reminiscences and tributes drawn from colleagues, students, and friends whose lives were influenced by his wisdom, compassion, and love for teaching literature and writing. Among some of the well known Armenian contributors are Jack Antreassian, Michael J. Arlen, Peter Balakian, Vartan Gregorian, Nishan Parlakian, Peter Sourian, Robert Hewsen, Laura Kalpakian, Sonia Ketchian, Harry Keyishian, and Nancy Kricorian Also included is a 14-page color photograph album that features Leo's childhood, college days, and travels through the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
