André GIDE (1869-1951)

Lot 328
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400 - 500 EUR
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Result : 574EUR
André GIDE (1869-1951)
L.A.S.,[circa 1900], to Joseph-Charles Mardrus; 2 pages and a half large in-fol. on Dutch paper (slit on the last sheet). Superb enthusiastic letter for the first volumes of the translation of the THOUSAND AND ONE NIGHT. "O Madrus, my eye! I need to see you. Come quickly... Teach us new wisdom; to the song of the south wind, everything I thought was solid sank. Back from Brussels, where I had gone to talk about you with the phallologist Ruÿters, I found your letter and the book [...]. A sample of delights - in what oases of oblivion, solitude and silence, would I like to drink from your fragrant cup! When I am with you, Schahrazade, the best friend who comes along bothers me. - Do you know where I take refuge to read you? - at the Hammam. I see a true Orient in it, where the muffled noises I hear no longer remind me of life. O Mardrus! Come on! Come on! Come quickly!...! Attract in me desires for new delicacies, - almond peeled dishes, sweet flesh [...], soft songs, stirred fabrics"... He admires in particular the verses in Volume III, from which he cites some excerpts; he compares the narrative with that of ancient chronic books. "Admirable, the separation of Daoul Makan and his sister - admirable their recognition in the night - and their songs! - And this approach to Baghdad.... "because the breeze that came from there could only come from Baghdad." And such joys could only come from you. - May Allah keep you and bring you in haste, where awaits you your grey earpiece"....
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