Conrad, Joseph

2 autograph letters signed ("Jph Conrad") to Thomas Fisher Unwin, dated "28th May. 1896" and "24th May 1898"; 4 pages each (6 x 3 7/8 in.; 153 x 97 mm - 7 x 4 3/8 in.; 177 x 112 mm); formerly folded. –Autograph letter signed ("J. Conrad") to Edward Garnett, dated "Wednesday [after 1910]"; 2 pages (10 x 8 in.; 253 x 202 mm), "Capeh House, Orlestone, Nr Ashford" heading; formerly folded.

May 28 1896 letter: Collected letters, IX, pp. 31-32 (incomplete)

very good condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Conrad and his style.

To Unwin, he writes about his very first publication, 'The Idiots' in A. Symons' Savoy. Written during his honeymoon, he relates to Unwin: "It was written in a state of exasperation caused by physical pain and more still by the helplessness that trammeled the work in hand." He seems really proud that the publisher likes his work. He then develops, with some vehemence, his critique of H.G. Wells, a fellow modernist-style writer: "The notice is valuable - but it is fallacious on the critic's own showing. I do not defend my performance. There is nothing respectable there but the endeavour. (...) My style may be atrocious but it produces its effect - and is as unalterable as - say - the size of my feet - and I will never disguise it in boots of Wells' (or anybody else's) making. It would be utter folly. I shall have my own boots - or perish."

The second letter to Unwin, unpublished, is also about Conrad's style. He relates to Unwin a controversy with F.J. Furnivall about his grammar: "(...) I am very much obliged to him for pointing out my authorities. (...) I admit that that my reviewers are right. The form is obsolete and should not be used". Conrad's native langagues were Polish and French. He decided to write in English (and to change his name, Korzeniowski to Conrad) which provoked recurring criticisms of his style.

In the third letter to Edward Garnett, Conrad congratulates him for the prefaces he sent.