Van Doren, Mark. (1894–1972)

"The Whisperer" - Autograph Poem

Autograph manuscript copy of the American writer and critic's poem "The Whisperer," penned over two sheets and inscribed and signed at the foot by the author, dated November 4, 1943. The poem in eight stanzas, beginning "Be extra careful by this door," evokes a slightly mysterious romantic encounter. Toning and folding creases with several chips to the corners and folds; overall very good. 8.5 x 11 inches (21.5 x 28 cm).

The American poet, writer and critic Mark Van Doren was a scholar and a professor of English at Columbia University for nearly 40 years, where he inspired a generation of influential writers and thinkers including Thomas Merton, Robert Lax, John Berryman, Whittaker Chambers, and Beat Generation writers such as Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac. He was literary editor of The Nation, in New York City (1924–28), and its film critic (1935–1938). "The Whisperer" was published in his volume Collected and New Poems 1924–1963. (16277)

Autograph Document Literature