July 2021 Auction Ends Thursday, July 29th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/29/2021
Hunter S. Thompson typed letter signed, dated 11 March 1962 from New York City to his friend Paul Semonin, who was traveling through Europe at the time. Thompson writes about nearly finishing ''The Rum Diary'', and also photography. In part,
''Dear Humbert: Here is the shot you took in Big Sur. I knew you'd want it. It is a good shot and I admire your technique. / As for nigger-child [a photo of an African-American child taken by either Semonin or Thompson], I almost believed you in the first few lines...but what you've either forgotten or repressed is that we both took that shot with 2 different cameras...Anyway, it doesn't matter. I sent nigger-child to PRNS -- with no credit line -- and they bounced it. I also showed it to a photo agent and she pointed out about 40 faults. In short, no sale. And no money...
Madrid sounds better than the others. I figured you might stay a while in Paris. Why not? No nymphet linguists there? Beware, Semonin, Spanish law deals unkindly with your sort.''
Thompson then goes into detail about sophisticated camera equipment he intended to buy. He then writes, ''I have gone hammer & tong at this photo business & am now an expert. The next time I do your portrait will cost you $100...
The RD [Rum Diary] is almost there. I can hardly believe it, but feel certain it will never be published. No matter. Just to finish the bastard is enough. I now plan to take off around Apr. 1 & may be king of S.A. by the time you return...I might pawn you my rifle...There is no luck and only madmen pay debts. [signed] H''. Single page letter measures 8.5'' x 11''. Toning to letter, overall very good condition.
Hunter Thompson Letter Signed -- ''...The RD [Rum Diary] is almost there. I can hardly believe it, but feel certain it will never be published. No matter. Just to finish the bastard is enough...''
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