The Awakening, Typed Manuscript Signed
[Oakland?]: N.p., [ca. 1900-1920]. Five typed pages, 8.5x11," recto only. Title and author's signature top of pg 1, a few editorial corrections, all in pencil. Toning, edgewear, and light chipping to edges of paper. Some creasing, scattered soiling and foxing, final page faded. Good condition. Included is a printed transcription of the story.
Original typed manuscript from California artist and cowboy, Edward Borein (1872-1945). "The Awakening," is considered Borein's best story out of the very few he is known to have written. It was likely composed during his years in Oakland after his career as a cowboy and before opening an art studio in Santa Barbara in 1921. This period is described by Harold G. Davidson on pg. 51 of his biography of Borein, (Edward Borein Cowboy Artist. Doubleday, 1974):
"Borein found writing a tedious chore, whereas his art work was spontaneous and quick. Observers who saw him at work report that he drew so rapidly it was difficult to follow the path of his pencil, pen or brush. Temporarily, he gave up his writing."
"It was the first one I ever see; but I sure knowed it was a ship. There was no land. There wasn't no land in sight an' the boat was a 'pitchin' around like a wild bronc."
Provenance: From the Western collection of Katherine H. Haley, sold by Christie's in October of 2000.
Sold