July 2013 Auction Ends Tuesday, July 23rd, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/23/2013
Joseph Heller typed letter signed, dated 31 October 1974 upon the release of his second novel, ''Something Happened''; his first, of course, being ''Catch-22'' published thirteen years prior. Letter to Professor James Nagel reads in full, ''Thank you for your very kind letter and for helping to make the visit to Boston so enjoyable for Shirley and me. Your good wishes are received with gratitude. The potential for commercial success of the novel is, at this point, much, much larger than any of us had been likely to believe, if this coming Sunday's Times is a true indication [likely referencing Kurt Vonnegut's review of the novel in the ''New York Times'']. What a pity indeed that you could not review the novel for the Globe and that Margaret Manning did. Apart from the matter of approving of it or disliking it, it does not seem to me that she was up to writing about a book of this kind intelligently either way. Our best again to you and to Gwen.'' Signed boldly in blue ink, ''Joe Heller''. 5.75'' x 7.75'' letter is accompanied by original mailing envelope; both letter and envelope are from Heller's personal stationery. Near fine condition.
Joseph Heller Typed Letter Signed -- Regarding His Novel ''Something Happened'' -- ''...The potential for commercial success of the novel is...larger than any of us had been likely to believe...''
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