English playwright, writer, illustrator, and activist (1865-1959). Two items: an AMS signed "from L. Houseman" and "Laurence Houseman," four pages, 8.25 x 10.5, being the "Preface to Og and Other Ogres" by Reginald Reynolds, beginning: "Satire, though it may be both diverting and salutary, is a rather unlovely form of literature. And because it is unlovely, it seldom rises to poetry; it has (or should have) more bite than beauty; and things whose main function is to bite do not generally impress us with a sense of their beauty. Of all kinds created, sharks, mosquitos and rattle-snakes, being essentially unkind in their nature, are the least loved; most people would wish them away. But because humanity is so full of moral disease (in which beauty is conspicuously absent) we cannot do without medicinal correctives; the homeopathic remedy is good for us; and verse is one of the forms in which, if well-handled, satire becomes most effective"; and an ALS, one page, 5.25 x 8.25, July 8, 1946, transmitting the preface to publisher George Allen & Unwin, in part: "Reginald Reynolds has sent me a proof copy of 'Og & Other Ogres,' and has asked me to send my preface direct to you." In fine condition, with a rusty paperclip impression to the letter.
This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for
(inquire for price)
*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.
