Details
FITZGERALD, F. SCOTT. Autograph manuscript signed of an unpublished poem written to Anita Loos, author of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, for her birthday. N.p., n.d. [Hollywood? 1930s]. 1 page, narrow oblong 8vo, 84 x 178mm. (3 3/8 x 6 7/8in.), in blue ink, signed ("F. Scott Fitzgerald") at end, apparently originally contained in a birthday book for Loos, the slightest darkening at bottom margin; in fine condition. The poem has 14 lines, all ending with a rhyme for Loos:
"This book tells that Anita Loos
Is a friend of Caesar, a friend of Zeus
Of Samuel Goldwyn and Mother Goose
Of Balanchine of the Ballet Russe
Of Tillie the Viennese papoose
Of Charlie MacArthur on the loose
Of Shanks, chiropodist -- what's the use?
Of actors who have escaped the noose
Lots of Hollywood beach refuse
Comics covered with Charlotte Russe
Wretched victims of self-abuse
Big producers all obtuse
This is my birthday, but what the deuce
Is that sad fact to Anita Loos
F. Scott Fitzgerald
"This book tells that Anita Loos
Is a friend of Caesar, a friend of Zeus
Of Samuel Goldwyn and Mother Goose
Of Balanchine of the Ballet Russe
Of Tillie the Viennese papoose
Of Charlie MacArthur on the loose
Of Shanks, chiropodist -- what's the use?
Of actors who have escaped the noose
Lots of Hollywood beach refuse
Comics covered with Charlotte Russe
Wretched victims of self-abuse
Big producers all obtuse
This is my birthday, but what the deuce
Is that sad fact to Anita Loos
F. Scott Fitzgerald