"Post Office" Original Manuscript (1 Viewer)

[pitifultheory123]

I was reading an article written by Abel Debritto and in it, Abel mentions that "Post Office" was heavily edited by John Martin.

"When Martin published Bukowski’s first novel, Post Office, in 1971, Bukowski knew it had been heavily edited and almost cut in half. But other than refusing to have a glossary at the end of the book, he didn’t complain."

Because "Post Office" is my favorite Buk novel, I was wondering if anyone knew where I could find the original manuscript for it, or if the "cut in half" claim is even true.

 

[Rekrab]

Knowing Abel, I have no doubt that the "cut in half" claim is true. He's a very careful researcher.

 

[Father Luke]

Write to Abel.

 

[cirerita]

It was pretty much cut in half. Bukowski talks about that in his correspondence at the time. I do not have the actual numbers with me now, but the attached images should give you a good idea of the editing that was done then.

 

[Rekrab]

Thanks for the images and information, Abel. Do you think a restored edition of the original manuscript will ever be published? That might make interesting reading.

 

[cirerita]

David, I don't see that happening anytime soon. Perhaps quite a few years down the road...

 

[pitifultheory123]

It was pretty much cut in half...

Well, hell. If I had realized you were Abel, I would've just reached out directly to you. Thank you for the input!