586 - Dylan Thomas Document Signed for His Unfinished Autobiographical Novel, "Adventures in the Skin Trade"

Dylan Thomas Document Signed for His Unfinished Autobiographical Novel, "Adventures in the Skin Trade" DS, one page, 8.5 x 11, May 9, 1952. Agreement between Dylan Thomas and the New American Library of World Literature for the "purchase of the first part of Dylan Thomas' autobiographical novel, Adventures in the Skin Trade, for the sum of three hundred ninety-seven dollars and fifty cents ($397.50) which will be full payment at the rate of two and one half cents (2 1/2¢) per word (total word count approximately 15,900) on the first 100,000 copies (or less) printed for publication...It is understood and agreed that we are buying world first serial rights in the English language; that we intend to publish the above material in a paperbound volume entitled a Mentor Selection of New World Writing, No. II; and that, for the purpose of this agreement, New World Writing shall be considered a periodical." Boldly signed at the conclusion in fountain pen by Dylan Thomas and countersigned by publisher Victor Weybright; Thomas also signs twice with his initials in the margin, assenting to amendments in the contract. In fine condition. Unfinished at the time of his death, Adventures in the Skin Trade by Dylan Thomas is a picaresque novel that follows the humorous and surreal journey of Samuel Bennet as he leaves his small Welsh town for the chaos of London. The narrative explores themes of identity, absurdity, and the struggles of self-discovery. Through vivid descriptions and eccentric characters, Thomas captures the vibrant and unpredictable nature of urban life. The work showcases Thomas’s poetic language and imaginative storytelling, blending comedy with introspective undertones.