This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/21/2024
BUKOWSKI, Charles (1920-1994). “The Prize” [Original Typescript Poem]. Los Angeles 27, Calif: I623 N. Mariposa Ave. [ca. 1958-1963]. One 4to page on one 4to leaf of white typing paper. His name and address is typed at the upper left corner, otherwise unsigned. Approximately 11 x 8 ½”. 1 vertical, 2 horizontal creases, some creasing to corners, a few marginal short tears, one creased chip at right margin, some toning, thumbsoiling, faint dampstaining to lower left portion partially affecting poem. Very good. As per Bukowski scholar, Abel Debritto, this poem is unpublished. According to the consignor, “I bought the poem from E. V. Griffith, publisher of Bukowski’s first book Flower, Fist and Bestial Wail. The poem is not dated, but Bukowski Lived on Mariposa between 1958 and 1963. Griffith published Poetry Now magazine, and years ago I bought a small stack of Bukowski poems and short story manuscripts from Griffith.” A partial transcription of the poem: “THE PRIZE sure, it’s tough, the streets without names and no more candlelight; who was the poet who was murdered in an alley you see what I mean: we make the wrong people famous, outside of a few like Des and Shake and Ezra, and they grow fat nibbling at our bones, our sodden leagues…” An excellent early Bukowski poem, raw and vibrant.