EDGAR A. GUEST - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 11/17/1939 - HFSID 33006

EDGAR A. GUEST
The longtime popular poet writes letter of thanks to a fan, signs his name in black ink
Typed letter signed: "Edgar A. Guest" in black ink. 1 page, 7x9½ paper affixed to 8½x11½ piece of construction paper. Written on personal letterhead. Detroit, Michigan. November 17, 1939. In full: "My dear Miss Manning: It was fine of you to write me, and I am happy to know you enjoyed that little radio broadcast. I am enclosing copy of the bit of verse I used, which I have signed for you. It goes to you with my very best wishes and my grateful appreciation of your interest in me and my work. Sincerely yours,". Edgar Guest (1881-1959) was born in England, but moved with his family to the US in 1891 and became a US citizen in 1902. A long-time employee of the Detroit Free Press, he worked his way up from copy boy to reporter to syndicated poet appearing in over 300 newspapers. He wrote over 11,000 poems and published more than 20 collections, beginning with A Heap o' Livin' (1916). His rhymed and metered poems, brimming with sentimental optimism, were scorned by some critics but loved by the general public. Well known examples included "Home" and "See It Through." Guest hosted shows on radio (1931-1942) and television (1951). The only person ever named Poet Laureate of Michigan, he was the great uncle of novelist Judith Guest. Normal mailing folds. Toned. Worn and soiled. Stained along margins. Otherwise, fine condition.