Influential American writer (1914–1997) who takes a place among the seminal figures of the Beat Generation. TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, William Burroughs Communications letterhead, no date. Letter to Mr. Nargi. In part: “While I am a great admirer of Beckett’s work, especially his earlier writing like Watt, Murphy, Malone, Malone Dies I do not feel that he has had a specific influence on my own work. I have not read How It Is, Ping, or Lessness. I doubt very much if my example has influenced Beckett. we met twice briefly and have never corresponded. He is very much of a recluse and not much interested in other writers.” In fine condition, with light toning to edges, scattered creasing, and a small tear to top edge.
Samuel Beckett (1906-1989) was an Irish existentialist writer, poet, and dramatist. According to Tim Conley’s “The Modern Word,” Burroughs “professed a deep admiration for Beckett. His fictional world is, like Beckett's, haunted by the fact of its own existence, with all the discomfiting desires and vague moments of peace that accompany it.” However, the author makes abundantly clear in this letter that while he admired Beckett’s work, he did not feel that his Irish contemporary had influenced his work—or the reverse, for that matter. RRAuction COA.
