Nineteenth-century American author (1819–1891) who takes a place among the most influential figures in the history of literature. Though his body of work includes such distinguished efforts as Typee, Billy Budd, and the story ‘Bartleby, the Scrivener,’ it was his 1851 magnum opus, Moby-Dick, that would come to occupy a singular position among the greatest works ever produced in the English language. Scarce, boldly-penned ALS signed “H. Melville,” one page, 5 x 8, December 4, 1857. Brief and attractive letter to an unidentified gentleman. In full: “Your note is received and in accordance with your request, I am very truly yours.” In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold, a bit of scattered light soiling, and a pencil notation along top edge.
Melville wrote this letter during a time of harsh critical reviews for his last full-length novel, The Confidence-Man, which was published in April 1, 1857. In lieu of his failing literary pursuits, the author took the years between 1857-1860 to lecture at lyceums, primarily focusing on the South Seas region. This was not such a deviation for the traveler and adventurer, as he was well known within certain circles to be a teller of tales, regaling eager ears with his stories of far away lands and native peoples. Writer and editor, Nathaniel Parker Willis, painted a colorful description of Melville during one such session: "With his cigar and his Spanish eyes, he talks Typee and Omoo, just as you find the flow of his delightful mind on paper." Anything bearing Meville’s signature is remarkably rare and highly collectible, as his writing was virtually ignored during his lifetime and his fame came many years after his death. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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