Highly regarded Irish poet and playwright (1865–1939) recognized as one of the key figures in twentieth-century literature. The phrase “slouching toward Bethlehem” from his best-known poem, “The Second Coming,” has earned a place among the most powerful and recognizable metaphorical expressions in the English language. Uncommon ALS signed “W. B. Yeats,” one page, 4 x 6.5, Royal Societies Club letterhead, February 12, 1916. Yeats writes to an unnamed gentleman, noting that the recipient has read Yeats’s play The Hour Glass and inviting him to read a new version, in which “[the character] Wise Man may have more spirit and more religion on his death.” Matted and framed with a photo to an overall size of 19.25 x 15.25. Small tear to bottom edge at left, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
