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Legendary Literary Agent Georges Borchardt Dies at 97

1/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Georges Borchardt, a Manhattan-based literary agent, died at age 97.
He was instrumental in publishing Elie Wiesel's Night after multiple rejections.
His agency, founded in 1967, represented Nobel laureates and Pulitzer winners, including Ian McEwan and T.C. Boyle.
He helped introduce American audiences to Roland Barthes and Marguerite Duras.
He defined his career by prioritizing genuine writing over formal tests.

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Story summary

Georges Borchardt, a Manhattan-based literary agent, died at age 97.
He was instrumental in publishing Elie Wiesel's Night after multiple rejections.
His agency, founded in 1967, represented Nobel laureates and Pulitzer winners, including Ian McEwan and T.C. Boyle.
He helped introduce American audiences to Roland Barthes and Marguerite Duras.
He defined his career by prioritizing genuine writing over formal tests.