Editor’s Note: The filmmaker Errol Morris was honored with the seventh annual Hitchens Prize at a ceremony in New York City on April 10. This prestigious award, presented by the Dennis & Victoria Ross Foundation in collaboration with The Atlantic, recognizes individuals who embody a dedication to free expression, intellectual depth, and a fearless pursuit of truth. The prize pays tribute to the legacy of Christopher Hitchens, a respected contributing editor at The Atlantic. Notably, the award was previously associated with Vanity Fair, where Graydon Carter, now co-editor of Air Mail, served as the editor. Errol Morris delivered the following remarks upon receiving this esteemed award.
For many, the day they learned to read marks a significant turning point, albeit one that comes with unexpected consequences. The ability to read opens doors but also imposes expectations and responsibilities. It is akin to Ariadne’s thread, offering a semblance of escape from life’s intricate labyrinths, yet often leading to more convoluted paths with no clear resolutions.
Errol Morris reminisces about his early reading experiences, recalling his fascination with the book The Five Chinese Brothers. This childhood tale of unjust executions sparked his curiosity about life’s complexities and the quest for meaning. Reading became a tool to navigate existential uncertainties, offering solace in the face of mortality.
Reflecting on his formative years, Morris delves into his deep-seated aversion to capital punishment, shaped by pivotal events like the controversial case of Caryl Chessman. His poignant recollection of awaiting Chessman’s execution underscores his firm stance against the death penalty, rooted in a personal history intertwined with loss and unanswered questions.
Transitioning to the influence of Christopher Hitchens, Morris acknowledges the profound impact of Hitchens’ writings on his intellectual journey. Through a thought-provoking excerpt from Hitchens’ work, Morris contemplates the nature of truth and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. He contrasts Hitchens’ skepticism towards claims of absolute truth with his own affinity for open-ended exploration, emphasizing the intrinsic value of seeking truth over purported certainties.
In a narrative rich with anecdotes from his investigative endeavors, Morris sheds light on the complexities of human nature and the elusive nature of truth. Drawing parallels between his encounters with individuals like Randall Adams and Henry Kissinger, Morris underscores the intricate interplay between personal guilt, societal expectations, and moral reckonings.
His candid conversation with Kissinger unveils a nuanced portrait of a controversial figure, delving into the internal conflicts and rationalizations that underpin decisions of historical significance. Through his introspective lens, Morris probes the depths of human consciousness, grappling with themes of accountability, redemption, and the enduring quest for self-understanding.
In a poignant tribute to literary icons like George Orwell and John le Carré, Morris underscores the enduring relevance of their works in exploring themes of self-doubt, moral ambiguity, and the quest for authenticity. Through their introspective narratives, he finds resonance with his own investigative pursuits, each story serving as a mirror to the complexities of human experience.
Errol Morris’ reflections offer a compelling blend of personal anecdotes, philosophical musings, and historical insights, weaving a tapestry of intellectual inquiry and existential contemplation. His unwavering commitment to truth-seeking and narrative exploration resonates throughout his remarks, underscoring the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate the human condition.