English playwright, writer, illustrator, and activist (1865-1959). Two items: an AMS signed "from L. Houseman" and "Laurence Houseman," four pages, 8.25 x 10.5, being the "Preface to Og and Other Ogres" by Reginald Reynolds, beginning: "Satire, though it may be both diverting and salutary, is a rather unlovely form of literature. And because it is unlovely, it seldom rises to poetry; it has (or should have) more bite than beauty; and things whose main function is to bite do not generally impress us with a sense of their beauty. Of all kinds created, sharks, mosquitos and rattle-snakes, being essentially unkind in their nature, are the least loved; most people would wish them away. But because humanity is so full of moral disease (in which beauty is conspicuously absent) we cannot do without medicinal correctives; the homeopathic remedy is good for us; and verse is one of the forms in which, if well-handled, satire becomes most effective"; and an ALS, one page, 5.25 x 8.25, July 8, 1946, transmitting the preface to publisher George Allen & Unwin, in part: "Reginald Reynolds has sent me a proof copy of 'Og & Other Ogres,' and has asked me to send my preface direct to you." In fine condition, with a rusty paperclip impression to the letter.
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