Lot 503
  • 503

Clemens, Samuel L.

Estimate
2,500 - 3,500 USD
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Description

  • paper and ink
Printed document partly accomplished in a clerical hand and partly in Clemens's hand and signed ("Mark Twain"), one page on Philadelphia Press letterhead (7 3/4 x 5 3/4 in.; 197 x 146 mm), [Hartford], 1889, being a response to a questonnaire about his literary career; light soiling, 2 tiny tears in upper left corner, docket pinhole in upper right corner. Brown cloth chemise and morocco-backed slipcase. — Autograph note signed ("Mark Twain") on the bottom margin a typed letter from the Denver Press Club (9 7/8 x 7 7/8 in.; 250 x 200 mm) dated 23 May 1907, being a response to a request for an signed photograph of himself; browned, typescript faded, repairs to left margin, evidence of mat burn.  

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."