DS, signed “J. D. Salinger,” one page, 6 x 4, February 20, 1964. Official card from the Post Office in Cornish, New Hampshire, filled out by Salinger to open a post office box under the name "John Boletus," printing the pseudonym in the "Name of Applicant" box, and signing in cursive at the conclusion, "J. D. Salinger." An explanation is typed at the center: "Applicant is an author who is planning to have only mail addressed to the name above, which is a pseudonym, placed in the box to avoid having cranks, etc. taking advantage of the fact in their contact with the name Jerome Salinger. Mr. Salinger also uses the above name (Boletus) in business with the Windsor Co. Nat'l. Bank." According to the card, the box was closed on July 16, 1987. In fine condition.
This remarkable document demonstrates Salinger's famously reclusive nature—operating under a pseudonym to avoid "cranks"—as well as his encyclopedic knowledge of mushrooms. He likely chose the name because of its innuendo—boletus being a Latin name for mushroom, and one in the same kingdom/division/class as the 'phallus' mushroom. His frequent use of the pseudonym is referenced in the New Yorker article 'A Night at the Movies' by John Seabrook, and in Vanity Fair's 'Salinger in Love' by Joyce Maynard. An extraordinary piece from the recluse writer.
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