Samuel BECKETT - [James Knowlson et Pierre Chabert] - 1987

Samuel Beckett (1906-1989)

Beautiful signed autograph card dated October 7, 1987, addressed to his friend Bogdan Manojlovic, founder of the Samuel Beckett Association. With envelope. Excellent condition.

A moving testimony of the last years of Samuel Beckett.

This card was written in October 1987, when the writer, aged 81, led an increasingly withdrawn life. A few months later, in August 1988, his health would lead him to move into the Le Tiers Temps retirement home, in the 14th arrondissement of Paris, where he would spend the last months of his life.

In this letter, Beckett responds to several questions relating to his work. He first mentions his essay “The Two Needs” (1938), a text that remained unpublished during his lifetime, which he supposes has a copy kept in the archives of the University of Reading. He recommends that his correspondent contact James Knowlson, then in charge of Beckett's archives and future authorized biographer of the writer. Beckett then discusses “Voix” (Voice), and invites Manojlovic to contact Pierre Chabert directly.

"Dear B-M,
Thank you for your letter.
I do not have the text of The Two Needs.
It may be in the archives of the University of READING, BERKSHIRE, England. I urge you to consult James KNOWLSON of the said university, stating that I have advised you.
As for a video recording of Voix, I do not know if that will be possible. France-Culture will make a radio recording. You should arrange that with Pierre Chabert.
Friendly regards to you and your family,"

Provenance: Vermot & Associés Auction House

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