HERBERT WARREN MASON II

It is May 2025, and I was just rereading my paperback copy of Mason's Gilgamesh along with his additional comments. His discussion of once being a secluded scholar was so poignant. I was sad on checking to find of his death although I knew he would by now be quite elderly. His inspiration lives on.

I was an undergraduate English major at BU when I took Professor Mason's "Religion in Literature" course in the University Professors' Program. I loved it -- and Gilgamesh! I was so inspired I wrote home to tell my parents I was thinking of majoring in religion. It was not to be, but I served in the Episcopal church as a choir member, historian, youth group leader, Sunday School teacher and on and on, alongside a long career as a journalist. Thank you, Professor Mason.

For introducing me to his translation of Gilgamesh and being one of the advisors on my Master's Thesis on the Tradition & Ethics of Friendship I will always be grateful. For also introducing me to Massignon and al-Hallaj and especially to Huysmans that gratitude has become manifold; only now in my old age am I coming to also know and much appreciate the inimitably irascible Leon Bloy, another man of my heart. Owing much to Herb, he can only have a prominent place in my memory where and...

Thank you for “your” Gilgamesh, Dr. Mason.

Having regrettably been out of touch for some time, I only just learned of Herb's passing. He was an extraordinarily wise, gentle man of great talent and accomplishment. He leaves a distinguished legacy in his work and his friendships.

I only just learned of Herb's passing today, just over a year later on-line. In a very intense & vivid dream this past night he visited me and we talked at some length, as we were wont to do when I was his assistant and, more importantly, his student in the University Professors Program at B.U. He gave me many signed copies of his books, introducing me not only to his own work--his Gilgamesh especially important in my study, writing, & teaching in the literature & ethics of friendship--but...

To Herb's family, I am so sorry for your loss. Herb and Mary were friends of my parents many years ago, and I remember them well. Sincere condolences.