Theory of Nonsense: typed letter, signed

Book Description

New York: December 9, 1939. 28 cm; 1 page on Burgess's monogramed letterhead, to "Hughes," signed with monogram in ink. 43 lines, including salutations and four quatrains of verse. Usual folds, toned at edges. Two closed tears along top edge. Letter discussing the theoretical template for nonsense verse from the author of one of the most enduring nonsense quatrains, "I never saw a purple cow." The letter is certainly to Rupert Hughes (1872-1956), author, director and, incidentally, uncle of Howard Hughes. Burgess writes, "I have discovered a sure-fire formula for Nonsense Verses-especially the double couplet, much superior to the quatrain." Burgess supplies four delightful examples illustrating the secret, including "The public marvels, I suppose, that I paint pictures with my nose. If there is any mystery to it, It isn't How, it's Why I do it."

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