ALS signed “Ansel,” one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, February 1, 1966. Letter to "Nick," offering wise words and advice in matters of life and career. In part: "The secret of the persistence of self in this world of our time is to invite the 'managerial' facility. By that I mean; it is very necessary to maintain a clinical approach (we used to call it objective). I am all for your launching into new fields and I think you may do very well with teaching—but teaching deserves a very broad humanist attitude. And that you have not given too much evidence of having, as yet. You are very much self-centered. First, the fact that Polaroid has expanded beyond the euphoristic character of a small company should release you, rather than inhibit you. The trouble with you is, my friend, your first impulse is to object! You are a wrathful young man. This can be all to the good if you can make it function for you. But if you think back over the past several years you will recall that you have called me many times and that the majority of these calls related to a gripe, or a disillusionment, or some kind of problem that might not have existed under more sober and thoughtful conditions. Having gone through somewhat similar situations I assure you I can understand it. Positivism is essential to really creative work!
Second, you will recall that it was poor ole' little me who got you into this Potomac fracus. I thought that you would be 'released' for a few weeks to do this job (and as much of it as possible with Polaroid materials). I had no idea it was to grow into a major competitive effort. Naturally, Polaroid was concerned when the weeks went on and on. Here, we might have evoked 'management' as this situation developed you should have taken the balls by the bull and initiated a solution. But no, your good conscience (and I can assure you this is appreciated!) begins to work, and you begin to see that a 'problem' raises its practical head. So help me, as I got you into it, I was somewhat responsible for getting you out of it! I am sure you do not understand this, so let it pass.
However, I am sure Polaroid comprehends your situation. You do make an error when you say (or imply) that Polaroid could not produce an income-producing job consistent with your long-term goals. Actually, I cannot think of a better source. But it all depends on you and your attitudes. However, it is usually good to attack new problems and 'clean the slate.' If you feel you can make a good life for yourself by teaching, that is fine. The market is rapidly being glutted by teachers in all fields and, in a few years, the old survival principles will be at work! However, if you do make a break, I suggest it be a clean one. You might very well serve as a consultant, but you should then ask yourself 'should I not give all my energies to my new field?' This is something only you can determine." In fine condition.
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