Description:

Eugene O'Neill
New York, NY, September 7, 1927
Eugene O'Neill ALS to Silent Film Star Lillian Gish re: "Desire Under the Elms" & "Strange Interlude"
ALS

A boldly penned letter from 20th century playwright Eugene O'Neill (1888-1953) to actress Lillian Gish. 1p on Hotel Wentworth stationary, measuring 6" x 9.25", New York, September 7, 1927. Signed at conclusion as "Eugene O'Neill", the writer sends Gish a copy of his recently published play "Marco Millions", in addition to referencing his other notable works "Desire Under the Elms'" (1924) and "Strange Interlude" (1928). Together with its original envelope hand addressed by O'Neill. Exhibits expected letter folds, with light age toning and handling creases throughout. Else, near fine.

In part:

"Herewith is 'Marco Millions'. I hope you will like the Princess- not to add, all the rest of it! It seems to me Nathan's idea is a grand suggestion!
I find my script of the 'Desire' treatment is in Bermuda- which is probably just as well for I don't want to be forcing too many of my 'works' on you at once. But I'll have it next up and hope you will look it over later. I've a certain pride about it because I do think it makes a strong picture although there's little hope of it ever being done.
I'll have a script of 'Strange Interlude' within a few days that you can read if you like. At present I've only my own… un-readable copy."

"Desire Under the Elms", O'Neill's interpretation of a Greek tragedy set in New England, first premiered at the Provincetown Playhouse in Manhattan on November 11, 1924. As suggested in the offered letter, he would be keen to adapt the play into a feature film starting from this early date in 1927. It was not until 1958, however, that such a film was released starring Sophia Loren and Anthony Perkins. O'Neill was similarly interested in adapting his then-unpublished work 'Strange Interlude', although this would become a reality in 1932 with a film starring Clark Gable and Norma Shearer.

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" x 9.25"
  • Medium: ALS

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