LAWRENCE Thomas Edward (1888-1935). - Lot 158

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  3. LAWRENCE Thomas Edward (1888-1935). - Lot 158
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Lot n° 158
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LAWRENCE Thomas Edward (1888-1935). - Lot 158
LAWRENCE Thomas Edward (1888-1935). L.A.S. from his pseudonym "TE Shaw," Karachi, India, Jan. 5, 1927; 1 page in-fol. filled with small handwriting (scotch tape repair at bottom edge); in English. Long letter refusing to write a preface and giving literary advice. He has sworn never to use or countenance the use of the name "Lawrence" about him, either in public or private ("I have sworn a great oath never to use or countenance the use of the name 'Lawrence', as referring to me, again, in public or private"). This settles the question of prefacing his correspondent's book. Of course, he writes, or tries to write sometimes: unsigned articles, or articles signed by virgin names. They are worth two guineas per thousand words, a bargain, he is told. They cost him more than that in trouble, even at his R.A.F. rate of 3 shillings 6 a day! A preface by an unknown person would not induce any publisher to publish the work... But why believe that a preface is necessary? Always read Leopardi, and Simonides, they are good people. Probably they will accept the work on its merits, which would be much more rewarding than being helped ("no .../... publisher would be moved to publish your work, because it had an unknown man's introduction before it. But why should you think an introduction necessary? You used to read always Leopardi, and Simonides, and they are good people. Probably the right man will take what you have written on its merits, and that should be much more gratifying than to be helped.) Twice before, Lawrence helped people by prefacing their books, but one, Richard GARNETT, was dead, and that excused the offense. The other, DOUGHTY, was a special case: Lawrence had tried to convince all of London to reprint it, and finally a junior editor said, "All right, if you preface it," - and then what could he do? Doughty was very nice, but it was a bit like carving his name on Westminster Abbey... Lawrence willingly makes introductions to publishers, and has helped several people with good stuff get into print. It's all about knowing the right professionals. Cape is enterprising, and the best producer of trade books in London. Let his correspondent send him a sample of his book, and Lawrence will see to it that it reaches, with his opinion, the reader of the house (Edward GARNETT, a critic of genius)... He has no doubt that it is good stuff, and perfect for the audience in question. If Cape says no, he would suggest Faber and Gwyer second, but Cape comes first. Seeker is too difficult, and the big ones too static. Let him send him a copy of a chapter by regular mail, and they will easily succeed, he is sure...
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