"Keep Your Shirt On" - Autograph Letter Signed to DAVID DIAMOND with Vintage Photograph

An amusing autograph letter signed from the American poet to composer David Diamond, offering him consolation after a bad review by Virgil Thomson of his Concerto for Two Pianos. January 30–31, 1949; 1 p. Cummings writes: "Dear David— strictly (and I mean strictly) entre nous (i.e. between 1 less than 3 human beings) the undersigned considers VT's verdict re your concerto for two solo pianos an ignorant piece of malice. The malice doesn't surprise me slightly (all 'critics' being per se disappointed artists—& never forget that!) The ignorance does beaucoup. As for that line of tears (if indeed tears wept that line) it very quite simply aint. And do you, I casually continue, know the simple and only way to completely foil or entirely disappoint really malicious people? Yes I do know, you proudly assert. Then tell me in 4 words, I sternly command. Keep Your Shirt On, you laughingly answer. Kid, I observe, you're not the rube you were once: times have certainly changed; you're a man of the world now. Salud, Cummings." 

Together with a vintage photograph of Cummings ca. 1934, taken in front of a backdrop showing an artistic rendition of Venice. Area of heavier toning around the edge of the letter from an earlier framing; otherwise overall fine. Letter 7.25 x 9.75 inches (18.5 x 25 cm), photograph 5 x 6.75 inches (12.5 x 17.3 cm).

From the collection of David Diamond, considered one of the preeminent American composers of his generation. He enjoyed wide success in the 1940's and 1950's, before the serial and modernist trends largely pushed him into the shadows. The New York Times described him as "part of what some considered a forgotten generation of great American symphonists, including Howard Hanson, Roy Harris, William Schuman, Walter Piston and Peter Mennin." (17563)

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Classical Music

Autograph Letter

Unsigned Photograph

• Sold