Eleven original signed letters from Charles Bukowski to Ben Tibbs, the artist who designed the cover of Flower, Fist and Bestial Wail — Bukowski's first book. Obtained from Seamus Cooney, editor of the three Black Sparrow Press volumes of Bukowski's letters, a few months before his death in December 2023.
The letters span from early 1963 to March 1967, numbered [3] through [13] by Cooney in pencil. Several include original Bukowski drawings — ink sketches, a blue ballpoint Christmas drawing, and the most significant item in the collection: letter [7], dated February 7, 1964, which contains a letter, an original ink drawing, a Stravinsky margin note, and an original aphorism that Bukowski. Bukowski didn't keep carbons at the time, so these are the only versions.
They offer a window into Bukowski's world during a pivotal period — the small press community, the early chapbooks, the LouJon Press publications, and the years before widespread recognition.
For the full story of this collection, read our article: Keep All of It: Charles Bukowski's Letters to Ben Tibbs, 1963-1967.
Except for the postcards, the letters all have folds. A few have creases at the top of edge. There is also red ink spots on a few of the letters, most likely an accidental spill by Tibbs. Please see the scans, which show any additional imperfections.
This is a significant acquisition for a serious Bukowski collector. I'm happy to answer any questions and provide additional detail on individual letters. Contact Mike.
