“The Pen is Mightier Than the Sword”
A Tribute to Maynard Eaton by Michael Murphy

The world of journalism, the history of Black journalism and a vanguard of balanced journalism was lost last week with the passing of Maynard Eaton.

He will be sorely missed by many and especially missed by me. He was a sincere and dear friend who would be available, supportive, reasonable and sharing. He helped to teach me the importance of not giving away your talents; charge for them as we are all finite individuals blessed with abilities to do our craft. 

You could never argue with Maynard. You opined your side; he would put forth his side. By the time you were finished with the verbal joust, you were the recipient of probing questions, resulting, often time with verbal fatigue just from the colloquy.  He was the best interviewer I have seen in action. You could not fog, or obfuscate him, or sugar coat your responses. It was either black or white with Maynard. You had better come correct.

I have no doubts that the author of the quote, “The Pen is mightier than the sword”, Edward Bulwer-Lytton had a Maynard Eaton in mind when he penned it. 

Rest in peace, my brother. A life well lived and an impact richly and indelibly made.