Lot 244
Steinbeck, John (1902-68) American writer; winner of the 1962 Nobel Prize for Literature. Autograph Letter Signed, one page, on Hotel Lancaster stationery, 7¼ x 5¼ in., Paris, Nov. 14, 1961. To French novelist, art historian, and statesman André Malraus (1901-76). In part: "I was deeply sorry not to keep an appointment last friday. An infection of the inner ear made it immpossible for me to walk. I kept hoping I could get there….A rather stiff treatment with antibiotics has removed the difficulty and I find I must leave Paris. I have my two sons with me and a tutor so that we travel in a squad. I had wanted to thank you again and in person for your kindness in the matter of professor Vinaver. He was greatly moved and pleased. Again my regrets, my thanks, and my homage. John Steinbeck." André Malraux was Charles de Gaulle's Minister of Cultural Affairs at the time of this letter. La Condition humaine (1933) is considered his masterpiece.
This letter is accompanied by a photo from that 1961 trip to Europe; pictured on the S.S. Rotterdam are John and Elaine Steinbeck, their two sons, John and Thom, and the sons'
tutor, who just happened to be Terrence McNally, fresh out of college and who would go on to be a renowned playwright; he would win the Tony for Best Play for Master Class (1995). Also included is correspondence between Elaine Steinbeck and collector Mel Smith, who wrote to Mrs. Steinbeck to ask for a copy of the photo. Included are one letter, a notecard, and two postcards which Mrs. Steinbeck wrote to Mr. Smith. All fine.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 3,000.
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