11-16-201411-16-2014
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2764BBoston
November 16, 2014 10:00 AMCalender
50

Kerouac, Jack (1922-1969) Typed Letters, Fragments, [February 1941]

Sell one like this
$4,920$4,000
Auction: Books & Manuscripts - 2764BLocation: BostonDate / Time: November 16, 2014 10:00AM

Description:

Kerouac, Jack (1922-1969) Typed Letters, Fragments, [February 1941]
Two separate letters, each a single page with substantial damage due to a leaking can of paint, with loss to the paper and text, both written from Columbia in 1941. To George J. Apostolos, describing football practices, upcoming visits, romantic liaisons, big meals, loneliness, and other subjects. Both letters stained and discolored, and chipped with substantial loss, the first fragment has a large rift down the center, the original sheet in both cases was 8 1/2 x 11 in., the second letter consists of only the top half of the sheet, 8 1/2 x 7 in.
Despite their condition, these letters do contain a little over 2,000 legible Kerouacian words.
"I struggle and work and cry and boast and ponder and laugh. I do all these things; they are the components of life. I have all my work, my duties, my studies, my responsibilities. I do them all---oftentimes in a lousy manner and in a lazy manner---but I always manage to scramble to that level that we call "Reasonable." I know that the world is in chaos, and that my precious individualism will not last. But I also foresee things….great, awful, dark things… and I foresee a terrible […] of beauty and stark horror for both of us (and everyone else) […] that I am chosen by God to become a writer. For, the Lord […] will be needed in the days to come."
Estimate $1,500-2,500

To download a pdf file of all of the Kerouac letters, lots 44 through 50 inclusive, cut and paste the following link into your web browser: assets.skinnerinc.com/documents/2764B_Kerouac_Letters.pdf


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords

Columbia, George J. Apostolos