Lot 319
Kilmer, Joyce (1886-1918) New Jersey-born poet best remembered for the poem "Trees"; he also published The Circus and Other Essays and Summer of Love. He was killed in action during World War I. Autograph Letter Signed ("Joyce"), New York, February 11, 1910. One page large quarto. A rare and important letter, written in purple ink on "Funk & Wagnalls Company" letterhead to "Russell" (possibly B. Russell Hertz). The poet, who was only twenty-three and had not yet published his first volume at the time, wrote: "I have not yet received the play and book of verses which you have issued. Lewissohn's poems came, but nothing else. You know, I gave you a standing order for everything you ever printed [marked through] might print. And stop in, someday. I hear that you have met the amusing Eric Bell - isn't he lovely? Yours fraternally Joyce." He adds an after-thought: "$18 for one poem! How's that?" And in red ink at lower left, "A very wise old man - a minister - just told me you were named Calapogon." Handwritten Kilmer material is rare and a letter with poetry content even more so. Kilmer makes reference to Ludwig Lewissohn, a famous Jewish novelist and essayist, and Eric Bell is mentioned in Kenton Kilmer's book Memories of My Father, Joyce Kilmer. There are a few small edge chips, one small tape remnant in right margin, and a small hole just to the left of and not affecting the signature; otherwise, Fine. A fine letter by an outstanding poet.
Estimated Value $800 - 1,000.
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| Realized $460 |
