This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/16/2023
SAROYAN, William (1908–1981). Autograph manuscript twice signed (“William Saroyan”) for “The Ping–Pong Game”, 4 October 1939.
28 pp. on 7 bifolium, 8vo (216 x 140 mm), title and first line revised in Saroyan’s hand, creased; folding cloth chemise; slipcase.
[WITH:] an ALS from film editor Gene Fowler Jr. to “The King of Comedy” Jerry Lewis: “Dear Jerry, at the end of a very drunken evening during the war Saroyan gave me this mms as proof of his writing greatness. Earlier I had suggested he stick to writing for ‘The Ladies Home Journal.’ He was overlooking the fact that I was kidding, but he never kidded about his work. I want to pass it on to you with the hopes it gives you 10% of the pleasure I have had working with you.”
[Also:] the original publication: The Ping–Pong Game: A Play in One Act. London: Samuel French, 1940. 8vo. Original printed wrappers. Provenance: John Bennett Shaw (book label).