Description:

Bruce Lee
[Kowloon, Hong Kong], ca. late 1950s
Bruce Lee Signed Essay From High School Incl. 200 Words in His Hand, "man's ability to brave the dangers which confront him." Among Earliest Known Writing Examples- Beckett Authenticated
AMS

An essay composed in blue ballpoint pen and signed "Bruce Lee" at top left, written entirely in his hand. 2pp (front and back), measuring 6.5" x 8", [Kowloon, Hong Kong], ca. late 1950s. The document appears to be an English dictation exercise, likely written during Lee's time at St. Francis Xavier College. Found throughout are Lee's own handwritten corrections to grammar or spelling, suggesting his inclination toward scholarly pursuits after transferring to a new school. Exhibits uneven tearing to left side edge, with minor creasing throughout; light markings present to upper left corner, not affecting text. Near fine, highlighting the beginnings of Lee's famous, flowing signature and elegant handwriting. Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from Beckett.

In part:

'The history of aviation is full of adventures, and their happy outcome has proved how great is man's ability to brave the dangers which confront him. Not long ago an aviator, while flying over a part of Africa, met with engine trouble at a time when visibility was poor, and was compelled to descend in an swamp at the edge of a large lake. His machine turned upside down and became deeply embedded in the mud. The pilot, though injured in the head, managed with great difficulty to extricate himself...He trod on what he thought was firm ground. Suddenly it moved and he found it was a crocodile. Only after five hours exertion did he reach safety; His clothes were torn to shreds, but he was thankful to be alive...'

The timing of this essay likely corresponds with the start of Lee's pursuit in martial arts, and the famous discipline and hard work for which he is known. At the same time, however, Lee's participation in street fights with local gangs began to escalate, causing his parents to fear retaliation from a powerful crime family. By 1959, he was ultimately pulled out of school and sent to live in the United States with his sister, Agnes. After spending several months in San Francisco, he moved to Seattle to continue his high school education and soon began teaching Kung Fu.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 6.5" x 8"
  • Medium: AMS

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