What Would Dave Say?

​Tribute to a Great Man : By Marta Sprout

Dave Farland was an extraordinary man with legendary talent. Scholastic asked him to review a group of manuscripts and select one for publishing with a significant marketing budget. He chose Harry Potter. He had many students such as Stephanie Meyer and Brandon Sanderson that went on to established successful careers. Dave had an exceptional understanding of story and knew talent when he saw it.

It’s been six months since Dave passed and his words of wisdom, soft-spoken nature, and the twinkle in his eyes still hangs in our memories. His impact changed the lives of so many.

Whether you knew Dave as David Farland or David Wolverton, he was a man who made a difference. In response to the news of his passing, the outpouring online was filled with sentiments like heartbroken, stunned, saddened, and devastated. It seemed incomprehensible and even unjust that such a good man would leave us so soon.

Whether you had just met Dave or had known him for decades, he drew you in with his welcoming attitude and fascinating insights. Dave was prism of remarkable contrasts. Keep in mind that he earned great success, worked hard to achieve a vast knowledge, and had the IQ of Einstein. In spite of all that, he remained a humble man. As a revered teacher and a man of great wisdom, he provided helpful information and always took the time to listen to others.

Dave enthusiastically pointed others toward the path of success and cheered them on. He had a keen understanding for people who had experienced trauma, a rocky childhood, or hard times. As a kid and as a prison guard, Dave experienced brutality firsthand. Many who’ve endured such hardships understandably become angry, bitter, and jaded. But not Dave. He still saw wonder in the world and never allowed those grim realities to derail nor define him. He charted his own path. Dave chose to be a gentleman with unshakeable ethics.

As caring as Dave was, he was no pushover. The man seemed to have a backbone of titanium and had no trouble standing up against anyone, especially those who abused others.

Dave knew the road to a successful career as an author wasn’t a stroll in the park. The way he mentored so many writers set Dave a part. No doubt, Dave had a tremendous gift for storytelling, but that wasn’t enough. He felt a need to give back and to help others. Therefore, he took us all with him along the path.

If Dave were here now, what would he say? He would point out that the time invested in you was well spent, because you have the ability to reach your goals. Dave would remind you that everything you need to succeed is already within you—you just need to trust it. Listen to that voice deep within you—it’s the voice of your friend Dave whispering to you.

Dave would often say that his life was one hell of a great ride. He enjoyed it and lived it fully on his terms. And he would advise you to do the same.

To my dear friend: Dave thank you for all you have done. Know that you made a difference and that you will not be forgotten.