Robert Aickman: Selected Letters to Kirby McCauley, April 1967-December 1980
0
0
As an Amazon Associate and affiliate partner, Menrva Books earns from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Author Description
"Robert Aickman did not have a literary profile in America when he began corresponding with Kirby McCauley, an enthusiastic admirer of his stories from Minneapolis. Initially as a favour to a friend, McCauley sold Aickman's stories to periodicals such as The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, but their relationship would become professional after McCauley moved to New York in 1974 to become a full-time literary agent representing authors such as Stephen King, and George R.R. Martin, before either these writers became lucrative commodities. McCauley had a very high regard for Aickman's writing, and it is arguable that without McCauley, Aickman would not have been as creative and prolific as he was in his later years. Much of the interest in Aickman's early letters come from the literary and film recommendations that both men make, and which establishes an artistic sympathy between them. Later letters deal more with Aickman's stories, as McCauley receives typescripts, comments on them, and attempts to get them published. The letters are a revealing record of Aickman's literary and other interests, and also of a friendship built on mutual artistic admiration." - Dust jacket
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
The correspondence between Robert Aickman and his literary agent Kirby McCauley reveals the development of a significant professional relationship and a deep artistic sympathy. Spanning from April 1967 to December 1980, these letters document Aickman's growing literary profile in America, initially facilitated by McCauley's efforts in selling his stories. As McCauley transitioned into a full-time literary agent, their professional bond deepened, with the letters offering insights into Aickman's creative process and later works. The exchange is rich with literary and film recommendations, showcasing a shared artistic sensibility and mutual admiration that fueled Aickman's later prolific period.
THE SCOPE MAP
- Correspondence detailing Robert Aickman's literary career and interests from 1967 to 1980.
- Insights into the professional relationship between Aickman and his agent, Kirby McCauley.
- Discussion of Aickman's stories, including McCauley's editorial comments and efforts towards publication.
- Literary and film recommendations exchanged between Aickman and McCauley, highlighting their artistic compatibility.
- A record of Aickman's evolving creative output and personal interests during his later years.
- Contextual information on McCauley's role as an agent for prominent authors like Stephen King and George R.R. Martin.
- Exploration of a friendship founded on mutual artistic respect and admiration.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
This collection of letters offers a unique window into the professional and personal relationship between Robert Aickman and his agent, Kirby McCauley. The exchange highlights their shared artistic sensibilities through literary and film recommendations, and details the process of Aickman's story publication. The volume serves as a revealing record of Aickman's interests and his creative output during a significant period of his career. It underscores McCauley's crucial role in fostering Aickman's later work and establishing his presence in the American literary landscape.
Page Count:
276
Publication Date:
2024-01-01
Publisher:
Tarturus Press
ISBN-10:
1912586576
ISBN-13:
9781912586578
Non-Fiction
Literary Criticism
Correspondence
Author Studies
Community Tags
Similar Books
