Noted editor Giroux dead at age 94

TRENTON, N.J., Sept. 6 (UPI) -- Respected editor Robert Giroux, who worked with many top writers during his career, has died at the age of 94 in Tinton Falls, N.J.

Prior to his death this week from unspecified causes, Giroux polished the works of literary stars such as poet T.S. Eliot and novelist George Orwell for nearly six decades, The Washington Post reported Saturday. He worked with at least seven Nobel Prize laureates.

The Farrar, Straus and Giroux publishing house editor also had an ability to find and develop promising writers. Giroux, who died Friday, once said the key to working with inexperienced authors was being patient and loyal.

"Patience is a large part of it, and judgment and loyalty. You have to have a commitment to the author," said Giroux, who leaves no immediate survivors.

The Post said the editor also had a similar take on the publishing world, saying dedication was the key.

"What's publishing all about?" he said in an interview. "If it isn't about what you like and believe in, you might as well manufacture sausages."