John Denver

In what was otherwise a very nice article (“Singer John Denver Killed in Plane Crash,” Oct. 14), we were reminded of the time that Denver stated that he believed he epitomized America; then, the article stated, “Or at least, white, mainstream America.” Why did that distinction have to be made? I know that we whites are more responsible for the huge sales generated for every rap group. Does that make Notorious B.I.G. only for “white, mainstream America”?

How many blacks bought Denver albums? In other words, why must Tupac Shakur be my hero, while someone who wrote and sang folksy songs, songs uncomplicated but hailing the land we live on, songs sung by a man who has done more for the environment than Barbra Streisand and Al Gore rolled into one, cannot consider himself America’s Everyman? And why did The Times feel the need to cut someone down after he’s dead?

SHAYNE HOOD

Newhall

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Being one of the millions of fans of Denver’s, I attended most of his Southern California performances. I am saddened that your Oct. 14 editorial included misinformation (he had his only natural daughter by the second marriage, not a son) and paid more attention to his problems in later life than what he focused on trying to do his whole career. He did massive work for charity and environmental causes. Far from perfection, his private personal problems only show he was as human as the next person. Never pretending to be anything more or less, he kept his hope and love for the Earth and humankind, promoted his thoughts and inspired his audiences.

Continuing his inspiration, I will help make this a better world by listening to his songs that remind me that there is still hope out there when problems are overwhelming.

MARY BRADLEY

Hesperia

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The passing of Denver is a loss not only to music lovers and environmentalists but to all Americans committed to a stronger, more effective United Nations.

Beginning in 1983, Denver served as a member of the World Federalist Assn. Advisory Board, and in 1993 he joined Walter Cronkite, Jean Stapleton and Lloyd Bridges in supporting our Campaign for Global Change. We will miss his leadership and support.

JOHN B. ANDERSON

President, World Federalist Assn.

Washington