Highly influential American poet (1926–1997) whose energetic, free-associative verse made him one of the leading—and most controversial—figures of the Beat generation. His long poem Howl, published in 1956, remains a cornerstone of 20th century poetic canon. ALS signed “Allen,” 7.5 x 10.5, October 21, 1976. Ginsberg writes from Vajradhatu Seminary in Wisconsin to his protégé Jonathan Robbins. In part [his spellings and punctuation retained]: “Happy you’re learning Auto Mechanicry—apple’d Nature, & now basic robot-workings, both symbolic vocations accurate to poet’s imagine-world; good grounding for imagery … both develop fearless ennui. Fix my car!!!! when it breaks!… Your writing can’t at present make an ‘immediate stir’ except among your friends or literary sensitives & congoscenti who’ll detect traces of present genius in the phrasing, the ease & familiarity you take with the muse, your attitude I mean; a certain breath in the line that indicates mental & physical inspiration; and potentiality of yr. natural & cultivated genius being yoked to … solid matter in Future, more comprehensible to the general public…. My first suggestion was, print it neatly yourself xeroxed & I’ll help pay for it. Second suggestion circulate it to avant guard or specialized presses to have it done, especially with Stanley Gould’s drawings. I think of Black Sparrow Press in L.A., maybe Coach House Press…. Please bring this problem to Robt. Wilson at Pheonix Bookshop near Sheridan Sq., & ask his advice, say I asked you to ask him for list of specialized lavender poesy presses, & suggestions as to which might be appropriate…. In answer to yr. question, I love you & your literary image too, I’ll help all I can as is proper & appropriate without straining beyond common sense both mine & yours, to see that your writings are published. I’ve estimated above wheat their present public appeal might be; you can’t make a ‘pop’ stir with material that’s not of that nature remember to try might be to waste time & blow energy prematurely…. Peter’s [Peter Orlovsky, Ginsberg’s lover] sitting 10 hours a day, I’m doing prostrations & sitting an equal time, & we’re reading esoteric texts on development of discriminating wisdom aspect of mind….” Robbins (now known as Jakob Rabinowitz) later became a respected literary scholar. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope bearing Ginsberg’s handwritten full name and mailing address. Faint intersecting mailing folds, otherwise fine, clean condition. Interesting craft-related content from the controversial literary figure. RRAuction COA.
We use cookies on this site to improve your experience. By using this site, you accept our use of cookies. To learn more, please see our Privacy Policy.
