- 503
Clemens, Samuel L.
Description
- paper and ink
Catalogue Note
Mark Twain opines on his literary career with his trademark wit. The questionnaire from the Philadelphia Press was sent to the four leading authors of the day; it was solliciting a response to the circumstances and what personal quality had contributed to his literary success. To the first question Clemens writes: "I have published infrequently, & have burnt more manuscripts than I have printed." To the second, he responds: "Good Humor."
The second letter is from the President of the Denver Press Club who is asking Clemens for a signed photograph because "in the olden, golden days in Nevada you, too, were a newspaper worker. ... You are a mighty cheerful personality and to look at your pictured face and ponder on your deeds will do us all good." Clemens responds below: "Write on it: | Mark Twain | Dear of the planet's journalism: | began [struck through] joined the guild in 1849, aged 14, | & has not broken the connection in 58 years."