A Guide to the Papers of Theodore Dreiser , 1898-1945 #6220

Letters

Theodore Dreiser to Duffy 1898 Aug 24

ALS, 1 p.

Hopes he will like the poem; writes that it could be illustrated; wishes Duffy would look at Dreiser's poem in the September Success ; wants his signature.
Theodore Dreiser to Duffy 1905 Mar 21

TLS, 1 p.

Needs humorous jokes for new magazine, Smith's , published by the publishers of Ainslee's ; offers usual rate for submissions.
Theodore Dreiser to [Edna] Kenton 1905 May 6

ALS, 4 p.

Thanks for her kind words; writes that Sister Carrie is still in the doldrums, though the general situation is better; mentions that book is well known; owns plates and hopes to find publisher for them; thinks he met her in 1892 in Chicago while peddling books; calls himself older and wiser, but no less radical, simply sorrowful and uncertain.
Theodore Dreiser to Sidney Portier 1907 Dec 31

TLS, 1 p. w/env.

Writes that 3 weeks before seeing his stories has turned into 3 months and that it is time he had a look at the first of them.
Theodore Dreiser to [William] C. Lengel 1911 Oct 15

ALS, 6 p.

Writes in "A Letter About Himself," that Harper has 2 books of his letters and clippings and he has more letters from critics and editor; mentions he is in Who's Who , his favorite book, his characteristics, his books issued and those suppressed, and his wish to be rich.
Theodore Dreiser to [Franklin P.] Adams 1911 Oct 30

ALS, 2 p.

Thanks him for his kind words; remembers his sincere approval of Sister Carrie and Jennie Gerhardt
Theodore Dreiser, S. S. Mauretania to Edna Kenton 1911 Nov 22

ALS, 1 p.

Writes that her faith and kind words will never be forgotten.
Theodore Dreiser to [Pauline] Hemmerde 1911 Dec 30

ANS, 1 p.

Thanks her for post-impressionist book and the Boredecker; waives Songs of the North until her returns from Italy, since all he can do now is stick it in his trunk; writes it will be safe with the publisher.
Theodore Dreiser, London, to Pauline Hemmerde 1912 Jan 9

Postcard, 1 p.

Asks her to buy a box of the same cigarettes she bought at Christmas to give to [Grant] Richards and charge them to his account.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rider 1912 Nov 7

ALS, 2 p.

Mails him The Financier , writes that he does not expect him to read it, rather it is for his autograph shelf.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Charles V. E. Starrett 1913 Jun 12

ALS, 4 p.

Includes typescript and carbon typescript copeis; thanks him and Press Writer's Club for letter requesting advice and cheer; discusses qualities of new great writers at length; quotes Sidney Lanier.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [Albert] Mordell 1913 Sep 25

ALS, 4 p.

Expresses pleasure at receiving his letter; writes that Mordell's book made a deep impression on many; welcomes a critical intellect; finds himself to have few literary prejudices, though not many literary favorites; hopes to discuss The Financier , volume one of A Triology of Desire ; writes that The Titan and The Stoic will be volumes 2 and 3; expressed pleasure that Mordell likes Jennie Gerhardt as most critics perfer Sister Carrie ; mentions William Marion Reedy and Thomas B. Mosten, Smart Set , The Century , A Traveller at 40 ; plans to publish The Titan in Harper's .
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1913 Oct 21

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Inquires about the law and the profits of book; feels pressured to complete The Titan ; mentions Strindberg interview.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1913 Nov 5

ALS, 4 p., w/env.

Expresses pleasure with the opinion of his lawyer friend; feels time will justify him for The Financier and 2 succeeding volumes.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Phliadelphia 1913 Nov 5

ALS, 4 p., w/ env.

Asks Mordell to call him or write; gives address as 23 W. 58 St.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1913 Dec 1

ALS, 1 p., w/ env.

Thanks him for galleys; calls article intelligent; complains of misrepresentation in The Sun and The Times ; decides not to be interviewed any more as he is tired of literary mush; call New York papers the worst.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1913 Dec 4

ALS, 1 p., w/ env.

Asks him to get 10 copies of an interview when it appears; calls the interview intelligent and would like to keep it for future reference.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1913 Dec 9

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Thanks him for review and interview; asks him to send 8-9 copies of interview.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1914 Feb 18

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Thanks him for clipping; intends to send copy of The Titan when it comes out.
Theodore Dreiser, Chicago, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1914 Mar 6

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Writes that Harper's has decided not to publish The Titan after printing 10,000 copies; plans to issue book through one of several firms; calls it Sister Carrie all over again.
H. L. Mencken, Baltimore, to Theodore Dreiser, New York [1914] Mar 23

TS, 2 p. (copy)

Writes that he has completed The Titan ; calls it the best thing he has ever done with the exception of Jennie Gerhardt , which had more emotional appeal; mentions A Traveller at 40 , Baltimore Sun , and the Century Co.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Mr. Rethy, Philadelphia 1914 Apr 18

ALS, 2 p.

Comments that he has nothing to add to former letter; mentions The International and The Manes ; likes Rethy's poem.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1914 May 4

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Thanks him for books; expects to receive books from Lane this week; intends to send one to Mordell.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1914 Jun 9

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Thanks him for his services in connection with Brandes, wishes he would read enclosed statement in regard to condition brought about by Mitchell Kennedy regarding John Lane and himself; believes statement illuminates American publishers publishing methods.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1914 Jun 22

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Writes that he is not troubled by wrathful reviews; believes that neither praise nor blame settle the fate of anything for more than a little while; encloses review, which he finds amusing.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1914 Dec 24

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Expresses interest in points made in lecture; presumes Mordell wrote clipping in Philadelphia Record which H. L. Mencken sent to him; asks for copies of page on which it appears; mentions speaking engagement.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1914 Dec 26

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Requests copies of Record to be sent to Malden in Hudson, New York
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1915 Jan 14

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Thanks him for clippings; mentions [John Cowper Powys], and a lecture he will present in Chicago
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1915 Apr 28

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Likes all really bitter attacks, particularly one in Saturday Review ; writes, "A vulgar, blatant scream" is not so bad; mentions the 50 reviews he has from England, some of which are very negative.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1915 May 6

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Writes The Genius will not be out until August and he will see that he gets a copy.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1915 May 13

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Owns rights to Sister Carrie ; asks him to act as his attorney in the matter; intends to ask Hayer what is expected for Jennie Gerhardt , which is a similar case.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1915 May 12

ALS, 3 p., w/env.

Believes paying $75 for an offense of this kind is to invite copyright stealing; writes that nothing of the kind will be done and that Harper's will proceed unless favorable adjustment is reached; mentions The Jewish World , fee to Mordell.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1915 May 19

ALS, 3 p., w/env.

Resents change of name as he owns copyright and plates, states that if a $60,000 loss can be afforded, $500 ought not to bother them; mentions Harper's ownership of right to present selling edition.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1915 Sep 24

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Sends bill
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1915 Oct 31

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Discusses The Genius ; mentions New York Globe ; thinks he is entitled to indicate thoughts of characters in their own language.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1915 Nov 28

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Believes he will assume art and literary direction of a large film corporation; opens himself to suggestions concerning plays, books, legends, etc., that could be scenarios; seeks subject of distinction, true drama, and poignance; promises to reward Mordell for any ideas of value.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1915 Nov 30

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Asks for a few preliminary suggestions so Dreiser may catch the drift of his mind and taste.
Theodore Dreiser to Albert Mordell 1916 Jan 19

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Thanks him for Ms. Skidelsky's review; states that she is all wrong about The Titan ; calls it the best book he has ever done; mentions H. L. Mencken, trip to Savannah; requests guess of how many copies of The Genius have been sold in Philadelphia.
Theodore Dreiser to Little 1916 Jan 28

Typescript copy

Discusses review of Maughan's Of Human Bondage ; sends thanks; asserts that they are blessed to be able to enthuse over anything openly.
Theodore Dreiser, Savannah, Georgia, to Willard Dillman, Minneapolis 1916 Feb 7

ALS, 4 p., w/env.

Complains of grippe, which has caused him to leave New York; undertakes unpleasantly large business; finds Dillman's letter sincere and entertainingly philosophic; comments that people who think logically and incisively are rare; marvels at how cleverly the world is run based on tradition and precept; writes that he does not know if the world is getting better or worse; comments that the world improves mechanically and is virtually static and that love is not rewarded nor hate punished; comments on himself, psuedo intellectuals, and laborers; hopes to see him sometime in Savannah.
Theodore Dreiser, Savannah, to Willard Dillmann, Minneapolis 1916 Mar 9

ALS, 4 p., w/env.

Puts friendship and affection before anything else; welcomes him as a friend; leans to anyone who approaches him via regard; mentions Savannah's Black population; calls them respectful, docile, and clean, which is more than he can say of the poor of other races; wishes for him to get a copy of Plays of the Natural and Supernatural and tell Dresier what he thinks of it.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Mayan [Little] 1916 Jun 21

ALS, 1 p.

Requests that first chapter be sent without waiting to finish all 3 copies of remaining chapters; needs to get them to H. L. Mencken at the earliest date; wishes he would write John Cowper Powys and suggest "Cowperwood" is legitimately spelled "Cooperwood."
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Willard Dillman 1916 Jul 31

ALS, 4 p.

Expresses pleasure at receiving Dillman's letter regarding Dreiser's plays, not because he agreed, but because he was forthright; fancies he should stick to novels, despite his former intentions to write a few 3 or 4 act plays; works hard, but not always in New York; considers going on a trip from Denver west with a friend and will stop off in Minneapolis if he does; cheers the Anti-Vice Society for suppressing The Genius , which is already done save for prosecution, which will occur if any more copies are sold; states that John Lane Co. will fight, but may already be beaten by the Puritan courts; asserts that his work will be viewed with care from now on.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Mayan [Little] 1916 Aug 1

ALS, 1 p.

Expresses gratitude for copies of vice charges; wishes he would spread news of suppression of The Genius as widely as possible; want to put Lane Co. where they will have to fight, whether they want to or not.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1916 Dec 13

ALS, 3 p., w/env.

Approves interview if he lets Dreiser go over the manuscript proofs beforehand; states that his corrections are seldom heeded when corrects only proofs.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, To Willard Dillman, Minneapolis 1917 Jan 11

ALS, 3 p., w/env.

Expresses pleasure that Dillman likes A Hoosier Holiday ; finds comment about his return to Catholicism amusing; denies idea that Catholics return to Catholicism; states that his present faculties will have to change if he is to return to Catholicism on his deathbed as it is claimed Voltaire did.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell 1917 Apr 4

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Explains that he and Lane Co. are not on the best terms at present, but they may claim Dreiser advised them to send document which Dreiser has not had time to read over.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1917 Aug 22

ALS, 3 p., w/env.

Discusses case regarding The Genius , which is before the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court; states that his counsel, Standfield & Levy, have a brief on his behalf and John Lane Co., whom he is suing to compel them to fulfill contract and publish The Genius , have filed a brief in reply; writes that Joseph S. Auerbach has been called into the case by Standfield & Levy to argue the case after October 1; sends brief.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1917 Sep 11

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Like article, but does not think he should publish everything he learns in private; requests 20 copies of papers in question, as the lawyers can use them.
Edward H. Smith of Monday World, New York, to Theodore Dreiser 1918 Feb 24

Typescript copy

Suggests a banquet for him the evening after the decision in The Genius case is handed down; lists possible guests; requests Dreiser's consent; offers alternative of dinner for American Literary that Liberalism with Dreiser as guest of honor; suggests publicity idea for The Genius involving K. K. Kitchen, Puritanism, Comstockism, and Anti-Puritanic ideas; suggests that Dreiser communicate with his lawyers and publishers.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Willard Dillman, Minneapolis 1918 Apr 23

ALS, 3 p., w/env.

Believes Lavinsky (?) is a good piece of realism and wishes he might write 6 books like it; intends to join Willard on trip to New Orleans and towards the gulf; mentions his 1910 separation from his wife; wants to figure out expenses so they can split costs; thinks September would be the perfect time to begin traveling.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [Frank] Harris 1918 May 11

ALS, 2 p.

Writes that he will meet him anytime; suggests he come to dinner at a quiet spot.
Theodore Dreiser, Havre de Grace, Maryland, to Willard Dillman, Minneapolis 1918 May 30

ALS, 4 p.

Writes that he has been in the woods eating and working and the air makes him sleepy; plans to work in the city, as he requires typing services there; expresses interest in Mississippi trip; plans to take Dillman up on offer to visit "Excelsior."
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [Frank] Harris 1918 Jun 5

ALS, 1 p.

Encloses manuscript of an essay disguised as a posthumous autobiography; wants his opinion; believes the manuscript too different for any American publisher.
Theodore Dreiser, Havre de Grace, Maryland to [Frank Harris] 1918 Jun 7

ALS, 1 p., w/ postcard to Dreiser

Sends sketch; mentions that he has been complimented on his speaking ability; includes advertising card for "Theodore Dreiser: America's Greatest Novelist," a lecture by Andre Tredon.
Theodore Dreiser, Havre de Grace, Maryland, to [Frank] Harris 1918 Jun 17

ALS, 3 p.

Hopes to write out Sister Carrie incident and points in connection with his philosophy; explains that Hey, Rub-a-Dub should not be assumed to represent his mental state; mentions 1911-1912 visit to Europe, which he recorded in A Traveller at 40 ; discusses Whitman, Twain, Huckleberry Finn , Tom Sawyer
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [Frank] Harris 1918 Jul 5

ALS, 1 p.

Sends writing to clarify his viewpoint; mentions "Man and Romance."
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [Frank] Harris 1918 Jul 10

ALS, 2 p.

Finds his piece impressive; sends "Personality," which may have a place in his magazine.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Willard Dillman, Minneapolis 1918 Aug 29

ALS, 3 p., w/env.

Offers to pay bulk of expenses to make September 15 trip possible; feels tied down with long promised work; writes that he has looked for an artist to join them on the trip.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Henry Eastman Lower, Washington 1918 Nov 13

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Suggests he paste this letter in his book and send book for Dreiser to autograph; includes copies of Life Art and America in an upcoming volume of essays and has no copies of it.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1919 Feb 25

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Tells him to write Rusy and start a discussion without mentioning Dreiser.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [Eva] Jacoby, Hurleyville, New York 1919 Jun 8

ALS, 3 p.

Thanks her for sympathy; writes that bump is not serious, he has 2 mending ribs and some scars; offers to sign the books she has; questions judgment of current generation.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [Edmund] Wilson 1919 Sep 19

ALS, 2 p.

Sends 5 essays, writes that "Secrecy" and "Neurotic America and the Sex Impluse" may be published as they are under consideration elsewhere; hopes for an early opinion of the essay.
Theodore Dreiser, Los Angeles, to Arthur Carter Hume, New York 1920 Jan 9

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Writes that he had not planned on permanently leaving New York when he departed on October 1; discusses living in Los Angeles.
Theodore Dreiser, Los Angeles, to [David] Karsner 1920 Feb 18

Expresses pleasure at receiving book; hopes Liveright makes him a lot of money off it; dislikes essay title, which might have been "The King is Naked."
John Lane Co., New York, to Theodore Dreiser, Los Angeles 1920 Apr 26

TL & ALS

Refers to Dreiser letter and royalty statement ending December 31, 1919 mailed several weeks ago; includes note on bottom to Arthur Carter Hume from Dreiser offering to show statements of indebtedness for books made from his movies to Hume.
Theodore Dreiser, Los Angeles, to Arthur Carter Hume 1920 May 1

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Discusses case regarding The Genius , mentioning John Lane Co., The New York Society for the Suppression of Vice , personal loss he has sustained; government refusal to act; encloses clipping from Cosmopolitian .
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1922 Dec 12

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

States that the 1901 edition of Sister Carrie, of which he has several, is not very valuable; plans to be in New York until the spring.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1922 Dec 26

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Explains that various other duties caused him to forget conference with Dodd, Mead, and Liveright; requests a few days notice for a talk.
Rex Beach and Author's League of America, New York, to Theodore Dreiser 1923 Apr 26

Typescript copy

Invites him to participate in proposed international congress on motion picture arts to be held in New York under auspices of Author's League of America; writes that the congress was suggested by Aldolph Zucker to formulate set of principles for artistic and cultural development of motion pictures; requests suggestions for the congress and his participation on both days.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rex Beach, New York 1923 May 5

Typescript copy

Explains that he does not wish to participate in developing standards for motion pictures; believes Author's League should be concerned with serious letters; mentions Clean Books Bill, religious groups who supported the bill, and Liveright.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, New York 1923 Nov 1

ALS, 1 p.

Writes that 5:30 today will be fine and she should ring basement bell, as Dreiser's work room is there.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Gelett Burgess, Author's League of America, New York 1923

Typescript, 4 p.

Asserts that Author's League has not assisted author's or publishers under attack from censorship; Burgess states that Dreiser is not aware of the work of the League; mentions Clean Books Bill, Liveright, The Genius , Motion Picture Conference, New York newspapers, Harelock Ellis, D. H. Lawrence, and Emile Zola.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1924 Jan 10

TLS, 1 p., w/env.

Asks if he is in touch with Philadelphia bookstores to get account of how many copies of new issue of The Genius sold before January 1; wants to check on statement.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to W. Orton Tewson, New York 1924 Jul 22

TLS, 2 p.

Discusses luncheon and possibility of publishing what was there.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1924 Aug 4

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Wants to undertake matter spoke of; inquires when proceedings can begin and how to go about it.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to W. Orton Tewson, editor, Saturday Evening Post 1924 Aug 12

ALS, 2 p.

Writes that he does no have an essay and cannot review a book; intends to submit poems, if a page could be given a them; suggest $35 for poems.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Albert Mordell, Philadelphia 1924 Aug 13

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Wants to proceed at his convenience; believes he may have to live in Philadelphia.
W. Orton Tewson, New York, to Theodore Dreiser 1924 Aug 15

Typescript carbon

Likes his idea of page feature for a group of his poems; asks him to send poems; suggests having artist work up a frame to make it stand out.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to W. Orton Tewson 1924 Aug 16

TLS, 1 p.

Sends 25 of his 200 poems; offers to show others; requests that those not chosen be promptly returned as his poems are to be put into book form.
Theodore Dreiser to W. Orton Tewson 1924 Sep 1

ALS, 1 p.

Perfers poems be returned with best feeling all around if there is any difficulty; offers to send other material at a later date.
Theodore Dreiser to W. Orton Tewson 1924 Nov 14

ALS, 1 p.

Wishes to recall 5 poems sent August 16; mentions "Tall Towers" and "The Hidden God"
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [Eugene V.] Brewster 1925 Jan 10

ALS, 2 p.

Thanks him for invitation to visit Morristown and for kind comments about his books; asks him not to put articles on Hollywood in book form as his contract with Boni & Liveright will not allow it; refers to "Rivet in Grandfather's Neck" as Cable's.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to W. Orton Tewson 1925 Jan 25

ALS, 1 p.

Writes that he does not have time to comply with request.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to George R. Hyde, Los Angeles 1925 Jan 27

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Thanks him for package; mentions Studies in Contemporary Celebrities , preliminary edition of An American Tragedy , photograph of Dreiser's head, and Von Sobern (?)
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Eugene V. Brewster, Morristown, New Jersey 1925 Jan 28

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Discusses rights to Hollywood articles, visit to Normandie Park; mentions Helen, Mencken, Boyd, Sherwood Anderson, Bercovici, Van Vechten.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to David Karsner, New York 1925 Mar 24

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Asks him to call when he is ready to come; suggests 4 o'clock.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Mr. Cook 1926 Oct 26

ALS, 1 p.

Expresses pleasure at receiving compliation of Paul Dresser's songs.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [William] Woodward 1926 Dec 17

ALS, 2 p.

Intends to pay him a social call; mentions bronchitis, revising and rehearsing plays, Helen, and Rodin Studios.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [William E.] Woodward 1927 Jan 2

ALS, 1 p.

Writes that he and Helen have decided on winter Thursdays to gather the 7 arts and 9 professions; invites him.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Thomas Gerson, Philadelphia 1927 May 22

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Expresses interest in his letter; explains that he did not contribute $.75 to the $300,000 fortune; thanks him for his comments.
Thedore Dreiser to Mr. Leach 1927 Oct 7

ALS, 1 p.

Regrets that he cannot accept invitation to meet Andre Maurois as he will leave for Quebec in 10 days.
Theodore Dreiser to Guggenheim Foundation 1927 Oct 19

ALS, 1 p.

Feels any representation of makes of Fawcett deserves serious consideration as he has known Fawcett and his works for 10 years.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to William E. Woodward, Charleston, South Carolina 1928 Dec 13

TLS, 1 p.

Expresses pleasure at receiving his letter; wishes to travel to Miami, but has too much work; thanks him for comments on his Russian book; apologizes for not sending a copy; promises to send The Gallery of Women when it is published.
Theodore Dreiser to Fawcett 1929 Apr 18

ALS, 1 p.

Writes that he is in Boston fighting censorship; sends $25
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Mr. Goldsmith 1929 Jul 19

ALS, 1 p.

Regrets that he cannot interfere with judgment of publisher who will put [The Twelve Men (1929)] out September 2.
Theodore Dreiser to Mr. Glide 1929 Aug 31

ALS, 1 p.

Writes that he can be found in his writing room in Guardian Life Building between 12 and 5; asks him to telephone.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to M. H. Hart, Jamaica, New York 1930 Jan 6

TLS, 1 p.

Believes Spanish American War Songs was published after Spanish war and includes poem "Exordium"; explains that it was one of a number thought destroyed in 1915.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte 1930 Mar 19

TLS, 1 p.

Apologizes for telling her to see Van Wyck Brooks when he meant Barrett H. Clark who is connected with Samuel French.
Theodore Dreiser, El Paso, Texas, signed to Rosa Vermonte, Brooklyn, New York 1930 Mar 26

Postcard, 1 p.

Describes bullfight in Juarez, Mexico; intends to leave for Tucson, Arizona
Theodore Dreiser, Dallas, Texas, to Rosa Vermonte, Brooklyn 1930 May 6

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Intends to visit Hollywood and the west coast when he leaves Houston; wonders how she is; asks her to write him at Horace Liveright.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte, Brooklyn 1930 May 14

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Apologizes for delay due to bronchitis; thinks he may have to go to Arizona for a few weeks for his lungs; mentions Van Wyck Brooks.
Theodore Dreiser, [Rochcester, signed Minn.], to [Rosa Vermonte], Brooklyn [1930 Jun]

Postcard, 1 p.

Card shows Mayo clinic; describes clinic as a whole city build around skill and energies of 2 men.
Theodore Dreiser, Portland, Oregon, to Rosa Vermonte, Brooklyn 1930 Jun 10

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Thanks her for note; intends to call her and make suggestions in 2 weeks.
Theodore Dreiser, Rochester, Minn., to Rosa Vermonte, Brooklyn [1930 Jun 22]

ALS, 1 p.

Asks where she will be when he returns in a few days.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte, Brooklyn [1930] Jun 22

ALS, 1 p., w/ env.

Asks if she received his wire.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte, Brooklyn [1930 Aug 2]

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Writes that he is going to Philadelphia but is delayed; tells her to meet him at 6:30 in Park Central as before; writes that she looked beautiful the other day.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte, Brooklyn [1930 Aug 19]

ALS, 2 p., w/env.

Writes that if she had shown up last night, she would have met Director of Hungarian opera; comments on her spiritual recessiveness, her distinguished thoughts, her beauty, the sadness of her eyes, her sensual charm and wisdom, her talk of vulgarity and sex; plans to visit her so they can talk; mentions editorial director of Liveright, The Financier , and The Titan ; invites her to dinner.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte 1930 Dec 2

TLS, 1 p.

Hears it is impossible to get into theater, with or without recommendation; hears sad stories of actresses turning to modeling; wishes he could help her; hopes for her success.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [William E.] Woodward 1931 Apr 6

TLS, 1 p.

Thanks her for clipping from Moscow News which he orginally gave to The Daily Worker ; expresses gratitude for recommendation; agrees America is in wretched states, but sees no economic way out of it.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Ernest Boyd, The New Freeman 1931 Apr 23

TLS, 5 p., w/env

Discusses quarrel with Paramount Corporation over proposed motion picture of An American Tragedy ; writes that he assigned rights to Paramount in January 2, 1931 contract; talks of changes made in plan of novel and how the hero was prejudiced unfairly and the distorted view of his work the public will recieve in the film; asks him to review movie to see if it carries out the ideology of the book; proposed list of other advisors.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Ernest Boyd, New York 1931 May 19

TLS, 1 p., w/env.

Includes typescripts copy of letter of Jesse Lasky; discusses showing of Paramount version of An American Tragedy ; wonders if there will be time to make changes; wants to know Paramount's intentions as he has made a few changes.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Ernest Boyd, New York 1931 Jun 1

TLS, 1 p.

Writes that Jesse Lasky has the film ready for private viewing on June 15; asks if this date will be convenient; wants to confer with committee; lists members of the review committee.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Ernest Boyd, New York 1931 Jun 10

TLS, 1 p., w/env

Thanks him for assurance that he will attend preview of An American Tragedy on June 15.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte, New York 1931 Jun 27

ALS, 1 p., w/env.

Refers to her comments regarding The Titan ; compares the power of her reasoning to French marble.
Theodore Dreiser to Ernest Boyd 1931 Jun 30

TLS, 1 p., w/env.

Sends copy of letter, 7 p., from his attorneys to Paramount regarding An American Tragedy ; asserts that he will seek injunction to protect his rights unless Paramount represents his work; calls movie a murder mystery, while the book is an indictment of a social system; discusses misrepresentation of character Clyde.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Ernest Boyd 1931 Jul 29

TLS, 1 p.

Asserts that others agree with his opinion of Paramount jury that approved the film; sends French translation.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte 1932 Jan 9

TLS, 1 p., w/env.

Thanks her for tickets and send payment for them; hopes to go, but doesn't know if he will be able to.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte 1932 Jan 9

TLS, 1 p.

Calls her foolish as he had no intention of offending her by sending money for tickets; hopes she understands that gesture meant that they have not reached the ideal state which would make it possible for him not to reimburse her; wants to know about her future artistic endeavors.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to [William E.] Woodward 1932 Jan 27

TLS, 1 p.

Intends to see Clement; thinks that Rockefeller brunch sounds explosive; asks to hear about the brunch.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Rosa Vermonte 1932 Mar 22

TLS, 1 p.

Invites her to stop in and visit some evening around 5.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Helen [Woodward] 1933 Sept 24

ALS, 2 p.

Thanks her for book, which he does not have time to read; thinks of moving to New Zealand or another foreign country to escape pressure.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Mr. Rightmire 1934 Mar 27

ALS, 2 p.

Authorizes him to sign Dreiser's name to proposed resolution to be publicized at Citizen's Conference on Crisis in Education; discusses resolution.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Horace Green 1934 Apr 14

TLS, 2 p.

Includes lists of Dreiser's books; mentions Liveright failure in 1933, terminated contract with Liveright, cost of books and plates still owed to him, sale of business for $22, 000, copyrights, publishing rights.
Theodore Dreiser to Clark 1938 Oct 25

ALS, 2 p.

Asks for favor involving money; mentions James Appel, Count Moener (?), radio version of Sister Carrie , William Lengel, Ms. Ellington's preparation of script; plans 13 weeks with 5 performances a week for Sister Carrie , asks him to compose one 15 minute episode and send it to Carlisle Smith.
Theodore Dreiser, Hollywood, California, to George F. Bauer, Brooklyn, New York 1944 Aug 25

TLS, 1 p.

Discusses scarcity of his book on the market; mention George Putnam, Brentanos, and Department Store Books; plans 2 volumes in addition to the 23 he has already written; mentions short stories and articles he has published in magazines.
Helen Richardson, Secretary to Theodore Dreiser, Hollywood, to George F. Bauer, Brooklyn 1944 Aug 28

TLS, 1 p.

Acknowledges receipt of list of Dreiser's books; explains that they do not have any of Dreiser's books, but they do have Dawn , an autobiographical study of his youth; writes that they also have his plays; Moods , Dreiser looks at Russia , and Newspaper Days ; plans to issue full set of his books when paper shortage is over.
Theodore Dreiser, Hollywood, to E. J. Walter, Chicago 1945 May 23

TLS, 1 p., w/env.

Replies to inquiry by writing he considers all his books his greatest and would not destroy anything.
Theodore Dreiser to [William Woodward] n.d.

ANS, 1 p.

"I am a dunce/She is a dunce/He is a dunce/the world in a duncing world."
Theodore Dreiser, Phoenix, Arizona, to Rosa Vermonte n.d.

ALS, 1 p.

Expresses fascination with the country around him; plans to leave for the Grand Canyon.
Theodore Dreiser, Savannah, to [Benjamin] Decasseres n.d.

ALS, 1 p.

Discusses burdens on the exceptional mind; decides that success is better in the long than short range.
Z. C. Brandt, New York, to Theodore Dreiser, New York 1924 Jul 2

*TLS, 1 p.

Writes that Kra, a new French publisher, is thinking of publishing Sister Carrie; discusses greater length demanded by French format; mentions Ford Maddox Ford as a leading French publisher.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Madeline Boyd, New York 1924 Jul 3

*TLS, 1 p., w/env.

Mentions Llona letter, Brandt and Kirkpatrick, and Kra.
Theodore Dreiser, New York, to Gotham Book Mart, New York 1926 May 12

Desires to contrast sales of The Genius and An American Tragedy in different part of the country; needs exact figure for copies sold of each since its itssue.
Theodore Dreiser, Mt. Kisco, New York, to Madeline Boyd, New York 1928 Apr 13

*TL, 1 p., w/env.

Inquires about Dr. M. Schiller who undertakes theatrical ventures in France; wonders whether he should trust translation and dramatization of his play to be done is Paris; invites her and Ernest to visit.

A Guide to the Papers of Theodore Dreiser 1898-1945

A Collection in the
Clifton Waller Barrett Library
The Special Collections Department
Accession Number 6220

Administrative Information

Access Restrictions

Use Restrictions

Preferred Citation

Acquisition Information

Scope and Content Information

Arrangement

Contents List

A Guide to the Papers of Theodore Dreiser 1898-1945

A Collection in the Clifton Waller Barrett Library The Special Collections Department Accession Number 6220

Administrative Information

Access Restrictions

Use Restrictions

Preferred Citation

Acquisition Information

Scope and Content Information

Arrangement

Contents List

A Collection in the
Clifton Waller Barrett Library
The Special Collections Department
Accession Number 6220