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A collection of 13 Autograph Letters and Postcards Signed by Mark Van Doren, along with two manuscripts, and 10 Signed or Inscribed programs, Christmas cards, and other related ephemera dated between 1949 and 1956. Overall near fine, with some age-toning, creases and edgewear. This group of material was compiled by Eugene L. Delafield, a friend and collector of Van Doren. Information about Delafield is scarce but he was known to a number of literary figures in New York, most notably Alfred Kreymborg and John Hall Wheelock, with nine of his letters to Van Doren also included here providing a more holistic view of their relationship. The letters begin in 1949 when Van Doren was already a well-known and respected figure in the literary world and a mentor to a generation of the poets that attended Columbia University, where he taught for nearly 40 years. The first letter breaks the news to Delafield that he "threw away the Frost galleys" that he was working on and commenting "I can never believe you are so complete a collector." Van Doren appears to have kept Delafield in mind going forward and he returned the favor with several gift to Van Doren over the years included books, research assistance, and at least one bottle of port: "We had some of it last night, with cheese, then had some more. And then, if the truth be known, a little more." Delafield was very flattering to the poet which is reflected throughout Van Doren letters and show he often would send Delafield copies of his latest books and meet him for lunch when possible. As early as summer 1950, Van Doren became so impressed with Delafield's knowledge and personal collection of his works, that he Signed for Delafield an introduction letter (present) that states: "This is to introduce Mr. Eugene L. Delafield . who with my sanction and assistance is preparing a complete bibliography of my writings, published and unpublished. I shall appreciate any assistance you are able to give Mr. Delafield in this work." Unsurprisingly, most of Van Doren's letters discuss his work in some way. Detailed are his most recent book and magazine appearances, public speaking events, and radio interviews, as well as ways Delafield might acquire those for his bibliography through a publisher, such as James Laughlin at New Directions. Van Doren also provide some insight into how his work has been receive and his own thoughts, such as a recent piece on Walt Whitman in which he candidly reveals to Delafield: "I do believe I'll never write about that old boy again. I've said my say, such as it is." Among the highlights of the material sent to Delafield by Van Doren is a carbon of his first draft of the 12-page essay, "The Artist and the Changing World," given as the Blashfield Address at the American Academy of Arts and Letters in New York in 1951, and a holograph copy of the poem, "This Amber Sunstream." Other items include programs from poetry reading, Christmas cards, pamphlets, press releases, and a page proof from *The Nation*, where Van Doren once served as an editor, with nine of these Signed or Inscribed. A nice collection of material from one of the most prominent poets of the mid-20th Century given to a dedicated collector and friend.
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