August 2017 Auction Ends Thursday, August 24th, 5pm Pacific

J.D. Salinger Autograph Letter Signed -- ''...I missed you by inches, once...''

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/24/2017

J.D. Salinger autograph letter signed from November 1966. Composed on stationery from The Sherry-Netherland hotel in New York, Salinger writes to Joyce Miller, a friend who worked at "The New Yorker" in mid-century, during the time Salinger was publishing stories there and working on "The Catcher in the Rye". Letter is dated only "Sunday Nov. 6", but comes with the original envelope, hand-addressed by Salinger to Joyce, "c/o The New Yorker", which is postmarked 7 November 1966. Salinger reflects upon their missed encounter, beautifully showcasing his ability to turn the smallest phrase into something personal and vivid: "Dear old Joyce...I'm the bearer of two shady-sounding messages, not to mention the fact that it would be fine to see you - I missed you by inches, once, at the magazine, when you were visiting friends. Many greetings, Joyce. / Jerry Salinger". Interestingly, Salinger writes this letter two months after separating from his wife Claire. Two page letter on card-style stationery measures 5.25" x 3.25". Near fine condition. With two original Sherry-Netherland envelopes; one blank, and one addressed by Salinger for mailing.