Description:

Hunter S. Thompson
n.p., ca. late-1960
Hunter Thompson Handwritten Letter to Friend
AL
Hunter S. Thompson (1937-2005). Autograph Letter composed on the verso of a typed satire entitled "The Great Debate" with a fictional exchange between Kennedy and Nixon. 2pp, 8.5" x 11", no place, undated, but circa late-1960 based on content. At top beside the title Thompson pens, "ad in Palo Alto Times", and draws an arrow which points to the typed text. Flattened folds, minor soiling and toning. Overall, in very good plus condition.

Thompson writes to his childhood friend, Paul Semonin, in obvious need of a financial break. Twice referencing football terminology, his letter reads, in full: "Ok, weedsucker - we got the touchdown - where do we go from here? / No breaks on the money front here. No news of import. Drinking continues. Sex enters. Will probably retire to Big Sur on Sunday. I've been offered food & board as long as I keep writing. Maybe $3.04 per hour road Job. Thanksgiving approaches - things are getting tangled here - trouble looms - will flee unless big money pops up real quick. What is the score on your end? Use Mont. address - better base than Gen. Del. Just sent word to H. Sloan."

Thompson started writing at a young age, and after high school, began his career in journalism while serving in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Thompson traveled the country to cover a wide array of topics for numerous magazines and developed a highly personal style known as gonzo journalism. He wrote several books, publishing from 1966 to the end of his life. His best-known works include "Hell's Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs", "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas", and "The Rum Diary". Thompson's fondness for substances contributed to several bouts of poor health, and in 2005, Thompson committed suicide at the age of 67.

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: 8.5" x 11"
  • Medium: AL

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October 30, 2024 10:00 AM EDT
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