Some passing thoughts

I was very gratified to read Diane Haithman’s article on the notable deaths of 2007 [“What They Left Is Just Indelible,” Dec. 28]. It allowed her to note the significance of Beverly Sills and Luciano Pavarotti.

It gives me hope to see that someone can still distinguish greatness from mere fame.

Nancy Guy

San Diego

“WHAT They Left” was a very good summary list, but notably absent from January’s passings was mention of Alice Coltrane -- wife and pianist of John, and a fine and intense artist in her own right.

Tom Canning

Calabasas

I find it very strange that you choose Ingmar Bergman for further discussion but not Michelangelo Antonioni, who died the same day and was given equal space at that time as a great film master.

John Mays

Malibu

How could you possibly include Anna Nicole Smith in the same breath as Pavarotti, Sills, Mailer, Marceau, Bergman?

And to add insult to injury, her photo was on the front page with the likes of greats.

Joan Rutkowski

Santa Barbara