This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/1/2025
John Steinbeck autograph letter twice-signed, including one with his full signature, ''John Steinbeck'' on the address panel. Air Mail letter addressed to his typist Mary Morgan is dated 1 July (1959) from Somerset, England where Steinbeck was working on ''The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights''. Penned in blue ballpoint, interesting letter touching upon a variety of topics including Steinbeck's frustration with writing, reads in small part,
''I was glad to get your long and disreputable letter this morning. It only goes to prove that mice will play. But 'four sided' triangles are even messier than three sided quadrangles. All angles and no corners unless you pitched a few.
Tom is going through an utterly impossible age. And he is very right. I have had a do with both boys. Tom has a curious idea that he can talk himself out of anything and it is particularly curious because he has never succeeded in talking himself out of anything. Best thing I can do is to stay away from both of them for a while.
My work, while continuing, is very confused and confusing. And I still don't know what is likely to come out of it if anything. It's a rather unpleasant balancy feeling. Sometimes I get so damned mad at Malory. He writes down nonsense things, doesn't even understand them himself.
Beginning to rain here. We've had a two month drought. Fine for now since farmers and gardeners clenching their fists and calling for public prayers. The rabbits are coming back fast and I'm very much afraid I'll have to begin shooting. I don't want to but the buggers won't stay out of my lettuce.
Bruton church fete next Saturday. Ours is one of the first 13th century perps...I'm glad you are going west. It will be very good for you. My sister Mary has gone home but her house is rented and she is staying in Pacific Grove with my sister Beth who lives in my little cottage...My head isn't working too well. That's not an unusual situation. Let me know what if any fun you have in the west...John''.
Pale blue bifolium letter measures 9.625'' x 7.875'' unfolded. Chipping along edges from opening, overall very good plus condition.