[2] In 1979, he published a book of poetry called the psychotic personality of our time,[note 1][4] and also wrote an unpublished play.
[3] He retired at the 1981 provincial election but attempted to return to politics three years later running as the federal NDP candidate in Etobicoke—Lakeshore but was defeated, placing third behind Progressive Conservative Patrick Boyer.
"[2] After leaving the legislature, Lawlor was commissioned to investigate legal reforms surrounding hate speech by attorney-general Roy McMurtry.
His report, issued in 1984, advocated allowing parties to seek relief in court or before the Ontario Human Rights Commission by using a class action.
[2] After suffering a heart attack, Lawlor was rushed to St. Joseph's Health Centre in Toronto where he died shortly after.