Lot 382
Schweitzer, Albert (1875-1965). Alsatian born philosopher, musician and mission doctor. Schweitzer won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1952 for his efforts on behalf of "the Brotherhood of Nations." He spent the last decades of his life working to wake the public to the dangers of nuclear war.
Autograph Letter Signed ("Albert Schweitzer"). Two pages, quarto, Lambaréné, Gabon, April 1, 1961. On onion skin paper. To author and editor Norman Cousins. Stamped twice with a "Docteur Albert Schweitzer" stamp. Mailing folds. Some creasing at top edges and staple holes at top left on both sheets. Several hand corrections. In very good to fine condition.
Norman Cousins visited Schweitzer in Gabon shortly after Schweitzer was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1952. The friendship that grew from this meeting gave rise to a rich correspondence, most of it dealing with the arms race. We are proud to offer an illustration of their communications. Opening "My Friend…," Albert Schweitzer goes on to address a proposed peace conference scheduled for May 5, which he will not be able to attend, given his duties at his hospital and his age: "…It appears that they are thinking of having you and me hold a public dialogue on peace and disarmament. I confess that I do not like these artificial dialogues which have become fashionable today. I think that you should speak first and then I will give my talk. As Mme Erica has probably already told you, it will deal with the nature of the discussions which have already taken place on the question of peace and disarmament and on the future of these conferences. I ask for 35 minutes to present this summary. And as the Nobel Peace Prize (laureates) have been invited to this meeting, they must also express their opinion on this and that question regarding peace and disarmament…This meeting should lend expression to our aspiration for peace. That is the reason for this demonstration on May 5. That should help change the mentality of the people of our day. Let us do everything to make it successful."
Estimated Value $750 - 1,250.
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| Realized $575 |
