This is a story I wrote back in August 2023. Quotes and inspiration are from Harper Lee.
I thought of it today as a tribute to David Soul as well as Hutch. And thoughts to Starsky/Paul.
MY OWN PRIVATE ATTICUS
'To Kill A Mockingbird.' Atticus Finch.
Hutch is my own private Atticus.
The White Knight. Standing in a courtroom, hands waving, passionately defending the less privileged and the underdog, going the distance even when there's no chance of justice or victory. For the sake of honor.
Waving his tie at me. I hadn't thought I'd ever have a smile in me again.
Sometimes aw-shucks and modest, but what's underneath the surface just can't help shining through. Remember when Atticus cool-headedly took out the rabid dog with one shot, from a block away? His children were shocked. They'd never seen that side of him.
Like Hutch. Something needs to be done, and however unpleasant he'll get it done. Don't ever underestimate Hutch and what he can do.
Kind to the Boo Radleys of the world. A dollar for Elijah. A private word to Sweet Alice. A twenty to a hooker, ignoring what she would probably use it for.
'Atticus, he was real nice', said his daughter.
'Most people are, Scout, when you finally see them.'
But most of all, when I was lying there in the hospital after taking those three bullets in the back. I knew someone was there by my bedside before I was even fully conscious. Someone who was bathing me with love and concern. Talking to me, talking to me. Forcing the very life back into me. Someone who would always be there.
'He would be there all night, and he would be there when Jem waked up in the morning.'
My own private Atticus.
The end
