Robin Blaser

The most beloved customer at Duthie Books was the poet, Robin Blaser.
Sadly he died last year and while everyone mourned the passing of a great poet, Duthies lamented the loss also of a great customer.

Through his 33-year career as a professor and poet he collected books -- many of which were purchased at Duthies. (His collection is now housed at SFU library.) In the latter 10 years he bought books as if he alone could keep Duthies going. We adored him. Michael Varty was his dear friend; they lunched regularly and Michael sat vigil for him in the last weeks.

Robin’s partner David said it was ‘probably good that he died last year; the news that Duthies was closing would have carried him off.’