ALS, one page both sides, 6.25 x 8, postmarked February 4, 1930. Early letter from Florida to the journalist Robert de Saint Jean in Paris, who planned an article on Hemingway’s books. Saint Jean was a central figure of the Paris intellectual world and the life partner of famous writer Julien Green. He and Hemingway had met in the late 1920’s at the time of the “Moveable Feast.” In full: “It is such a long way from here to the Deux Magots that I am afraid we cannot meet very soon unless you should be coming to America. We will be back in Paris in about a year. About the article. I am sure writing about the books you will make no bêtises—and as the life of a writer is usually nothing but bêtises it is better not to mention it. But I am very sorry to miss seeing you again and I hope we will meet in Paris sometime not too far away.” Central horizontal and vertical fold, one passing through first letter of signature, several pencil notations to edges and a bit of light soiling, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Hemingway’s hand.
Just after publishing “A Farewell to Arms,” Hemingway writes this message about the ‘long way’ from Florida to the famous Parisian café Les Deux Magots, synthesizing his situation as a writer torn between two worlds. His advice on avoiding mentioning an outline of his life as “the life of a writer is usually nothing but bêtises” (silly mistakes) is also particularly meaningful. A desirable self-mocking handwritten letter penned from Key West in his prime. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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