Legendary "Dracula" author BRAM STOKER scarce handwritten letter signed to his publisher Newman Flower, and signed at the conclusion in full as "Bram Stoker". In the letter Stoker inquires if Flower would have any interest in publishing any of his short short stories. Although Stoker had already written his magnum opus "Dracula", it never achieved the global success it now enjoys during his lifetime. As such getting stories published was still a somewhat arduous task for Stoker. This letter represents of the few letters from Stoker directly relating to his work as an author and provides unique insight into his publication process.
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On his personal 4 Durham Place, Chelsea. S.W. letterhead, Stoker writes:
"26/6/08
Dear Mr.Flower
Will you kindly if you can let me know on Monday, that is write on Monday, if any of the stories suit you. Please don't think I wish to hurry or worry you but I have to arrange for America and at this time of year these people are oft to leave New York for the summer so I could not write to any thing till Autumn - which is rather late.
Yours Ever
Bram Stoker."
Published in 1897, Stoker's legendary Gothic horror classic "Dracula" was mostly written in the 1890s. Stoker produced over a hundred pages of notes for the novel, drawing extensively from Transylvanian folklore and history. Some scholars have suggested that the character of Dracula was inspired by historical figures like the Wallachian prince Vlad the Impaler or the countess Elizabeth Báthory, but Stoker's own notes mention neither figure. He found the name Dracula in the Whitby public library while holidaying in the English seaside town, picking it because he thought it meant devil in Romanian.
1908 was a productive year for Stoker in which he published "Snowbound: The Record of a Theatrical Touring Party" – a collection of short stories set in rural Scotland, where a party of travelling actors are trapped in the snow telling stories to each other to pass the time. The book is influenced by Stoker's years in the service of Victorian stage actor Sir Henry Irving.
The Stoker letter is in good condition with some foxing and toning consistent with age, use and handling, as shown. Handwritten pencil notes to margins from 19th century collector denoting Stoker's status as Sir Henry Irving's manager as well as the author of "Dracula", as shown.
Authentic signed Stoker documents are relatively scarce, and seldom come to market. Don't miss your chance to add this legendary literary signature to your collection.
Own a remarkable, original piece of Literary history! The perfect gift for the aspiring author, autograph collector, or literary enthusiast.
Sold as is, as shown.