ALS, one page both sides, 8.5 x 5.5, personal letterhead, October 21, 1977. In a letter to Robert Wilson, owner of the legendary Phoenix Book Shop in Greenwich Village, Miller writes, in part: “Thank you very much for the catalogs—I returned three signed as requested. Could use an additional six, if OK with you. Your letter puzzles me. Who is the present owner of the shop—you or Tom Paquette? Who owns all these titles now, or the bulk of them? And how did you or whoever arrive at prices quoted? Has someone actually paid some of these phenomenal prices?” Miller then lists five people to whom he would like catalogs sent, along with the postscript, “I once ran a speakeasy on Perry St. near Hudson!” In fine condition, with light creasing. Accompanied by original mailing envelope, addressed in Miller’s hand. Wilson owned the Phoenix Book Shop from 1962 to 1988, cultivating a thriving community of poets and poet enthusiasts. Wilson forged relationships with many local and renowned authors and poets, and built an exceptionally eclectic and remarkable collection of poetry and exclusive works. This letter highlights one of the precious literary relationships that Wilson nurtured during his tenure. RRAuction COA.
