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Important typed letter signed by Malcolm X, commenting on his ''chickens coming home to roost'' comments following John F. Kennedy's assassination. Dated 11 December 1963 just 10 days after he made the remarks, which drew widespread criticism, Malcolm X here responds to a woman who wrote him an encouraging letter. After Malcolm X made the comments, the Nation of Islam suspended him from public speaking for 90 days, which Malcolm X refers to here. He also furthers the roosting metaphor, referring to himself as a rooster who can't stop crowing once he's learned ''who the devil is.'' Composed on his personal Malik Shabazz Islamic stationery, letter reads in full,
''I receive your very encouraging letter this past week. Your interest and concern was in itself very encouraging and inspiring. Friends in need are true friends indeed.
I am still the Minister of Muhammad's Mosque but my speaking and public appearances have been curtailed 'suspended' for an indefinite period. I have kept a very fast pace and this is the only way I could ever get any rest. The only way to stop a rooster from crowing is to stop the sun from rising. When the rooster sees the light by nature it is time for him to crow. Once we know who the devil is, it is difficult to keep all that light to ourselves. We just have to crow.
Please give my best regards to your mother and family. / As-Salaam-Alaikum / Your brother, [signed] Malcolm X.''
Single page measures 8.5'' x 11'', boldly signed in blue ballpoint. Folds and faint toning, overall near fine condition.
Malcolm X Letter Signed from December 1963 After His JFK ''Roost'' Remarks -- ''I am still the Minister of Muhammad's Mosque but my speaking and public appearances have been curtailed 'suspended'''
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