Ray Guy, Canadian journalist and author (d. 2013)

Ray Guy, whose insightful and often biting wit became a defining voice for Newfoundland, was a celebrated journalist and humourist. Born on April 22, 1939, in the coastal community of Come By Chance, located in Placentia Bay, Newfoundland, he was the son of George Hynes and Alice Louise Guy. While his birth took place in Come By Chance, it was in Arnold's Cove, a quintessential Newfoundland outport, that he was primarily raised and educated. This formative experience in Arnold's Cove would prove to be an inexhaustible wellspring of inspiration, providing rich fodder for many of his distinctive columns, which vividly captured the nuances, challenges, and enduring spirit of rural Newfoundland life.

A Voice for Newfoundland: Journalism and Satire

After completing his studies in journalism at Ryerson Polytechnic Institute, Guy embarked on a remarkable career that would establish him as a formidable presence in Canadian letters. From 1963 to 1974, he was a prominent writer for the St. John's Evening Telegram, where his columns garnered a significant following. Beyond the daily newspaper, his incisive observations and humorous narratives also graced the pages of esteemed regional publications such as Atlantic Insight and the Newfoundland Quarterly. His body of work was characterized by a potent combination of sharp political satire and deeply empathetic, yet often humorous, essays exploring the everyday realities of Newfoundland's outport existence.

A cornerstone of his journalistic legacy was his fearless engagement with the political landscape of his time. During an era when direct political opposition was often perceived as ineffectual, Ray Guy’s columns in the Evening Telegram stood out for their candid criticism and astute ridicule of the policies and perceived excesses of then-Premier Joseph Smallwood. Smallwood, Newfoundland’s first premier and a towering, often autocratic, figure, held immense power and influence. In this challenging political climate, Guy’s satirical pen served as a crucial, independent voice, providing a public forum for accountability and humorous dissent that resonated deeply with the populace.

Beyond the Column: Stage, Screen, and Broadcast

Ray Guy's creative talents were not confined to the written page; they also flourished in other artistic mediums. In 1979, the acclaimed Canadian actor and writer Gordon Pinsent created "Up at Ours," a half-hour CBC St. John's television series that brought Guy's world to the small screen. The show featured Mary Walsh as the proprietor of a bustling boarding house, with Ray Guy himself starring as the principal boarder, showcasing his natural comedic timing and charisma. His connection with Mary Walsh continued into the theatrical realm; in 1985, Walsh directed and appeared in a stage play written by Guy, titled "Young Triffie's Been Made Away With." This compelling narrative later transitioned to cinema when Walsh directed it as a film in 2006, released in some markets under the abbreviated title "Young Triffie." Additionally, Guy shared his perceptive commentary and characteristic wit as a regular guest on the CBC St. John's news program "Here & Now," further cementing his place as a beloved public figure.

Accolades and Legacy

Ray Guy’s exceptional contributions to Canadian literature and humour were formally recognized when he received the prestigious Stephen Leacock Award for Humour in 1977 for his captivating collection of writings, "That Far Greater Bay" (published in 1976). This national honour underscored his unique ability to translate local anecdotes and observations into universally appreciated humour. Further acknowledging his profound impact on Newfoundland's cultural and intellectual landscape, Memorial University of Newfoundland awarded him an honorary doctorate in 2001. Ray Guy passed away on May 14, 2013, at the age of 74, following a battle with cancer. His passing marked the end of an era for Newfoundland journalism, yet his legacy endures through his sharp wit, his insightful social commentary, and his enduring ability to capture the authentic spirit of his beloved home province.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ray Guy

Who was Ray Guy?
Ray Guy was a distinguished Newfoundland journalist, humourist, and satirist, widely celebrated for his sharp wit and incisive commentary on Newfoundland life and politics.
What was Ray Guy best known for?
He was best known for his satirical newspaper and magazine columns, particularly those published in the St. John's Evening Telegram, where he famously critiqued the policies and excesses of Premier Joseph Smallwood.
What significant award did Ray Guy receive?
Ray Guy was awarded the Stephen Leacock Award for Humour in 1977 for his collection "That Far Greater Bay" (1976), a prestigious Canadian literary honour.
Did Ray Guy appear on television or in films?
Yes, he starred in the CBC St. John's television series "Up at Ours" and was a commentator on "Here & Now." His play, "Young Triffie's Been Made Away With," was also adapted into a film directed by Mary Walsh.
What was the significance of Arnold's Cove in his life and work?
Arnold's Cove was the community where Ray Guy was raised and schooled. It became a significant source of inspiration and material for his humorous columns, which often explored the unique aspects of Newfoundland outport life.