Hercules, My Shipmate [Books into Film] [Peter Bogdanovich, Signed Association Copy]

New York: Creative Age Press, 1945. First American Edition. Hardcover with Dust Jacket. Good/Good. Long inscription to Laura [Pels] referencing making the book into a movie to be called "The Golden Fleece", signed "Peter", the title page and p 2 marked up with notes by Bogdanovich as well.

Tan cloth with spine in two color borders with titles in gilt; Front author’s facsimile signature stamped in gilt in color box. 8.25 inches tall; 3-464 pages with historical appendix. The book has been handled with hand-soiling on the boards; The bindings are tight and square. Text is clean; light, even age-toning. Moderate shelf handling wear. The dust (truncated) jacket has the price and has evenly age-toned with loss on the spine tips and wear along the top front edge. First American Edition

Provenance: Laura Pels Collection, River House, NYC. Robert Graves' Hercules, My Shipmate is a captivating reimagining of Greek mythology that intertwines the adventures of Hercules with the trials of the Argonauts. Published in 1945, Graves' narrative skillfully blends historical detail with mythological fantasy, offering a fresh perspective on familiar legends. His prose is richly evocative, transporting readers to a vivid ancient world where gods and mortals clash amidst epic quests and personal rivalries. Graves' deep understanding of classical literature and culture shines through, making this novel both a scholarly exploration and an engaging tale of heroism and destiny.

Bogdanovich harbored a deep admiration for Robert Graves' novel. He expressed a desire to adapt this story into a film, aiming to present it as a realistic narrative devoid of supernatural elements. In an interview, Bogdanovich remarked, "One is The Golden Fleece, the story of Jason and the Argonauts."

Peter Bogdanovich and Laura Pels had a professional relationship rooted in their shared passion for theater. Pels was a prominent American philanthropist and significant patron of the arts, and her support extended to various theatrical productions. In recognition of her contributions, the Roundabout Theatre Company named their theater the Laura Pels Theatre. Bogdanovich, a renowned filmmaker and theater director, was associated with productions at this venue. For instance, his play Misalli was performed at the Laura Pels Theatre, highlighting the connection between Pels' philanthropy and Bogdanovich's work.

Ref: Peter Bogdanovich Interview; Harris, Thomas J. Literature/Film Quarterly;  Salisbury, Md. Vol. 16 Issuew 4;  Senses of Cinema July 2004 Issue 32; Jstor (Inventory #: 20279)