"I'm not a bastard" - Autograph Poem

Autograph poem ca. 1951-1952 by the highly influential French writer and philosopher known as a key figure in existentialism.  From the collection of Michelle Vian, wife of author Boris Vian and one of Sartre's long-time mistresses, who remained close to him throughout his later life.  The poem is penned on a torn leaf from a notebook, hole-punched with slight tears but overall in fine condition.  9 x 12.5 cm.  

The poem reads:

«Moi je suis pas un pourri 
Je respecte les souris 
Et je voudrais pas rester 
À bailler 
En les faisant travailler 
Vous allez p't'et me trouver bête 
mais je ne suis pas de ceux qui mettent 
Pour gagner des pesetes 
leur propre soeur sur le tas 
Je gagn'ma vie à la sueur 
De mon front 
Je suis tueur. 
A Boston.»

Translated:
I'm not a bastard
I respect the mice
And I would not stay
To yawn
By making them work
You may think I'm stupid
but I am not of those who
to earn a few pesetas
would put their own sister on the job
I earn my living by the sweat
Of my brow
I'm a killer.

In Boston. (11892)

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Signed Document/Item

Philosophy & Religions

Literature

$2,200.00

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