Book of Breething [J:538]

3 folios containing various drafts of both the MS and illustrations for the Book of Breething published by OU, Henri Chopin, Essex, 1974 in an edition of 400 copies.

First folio. This portfolio contains Burroughs' own copy of the Book of Breething, 27 pages of the original MS (3 in holograph) with some pages bearing drafts of Burroughs' ideas for the illustrations that were executed by the artist, Bob Gale, 3 carbons of letters from Burroughs to the publisher and a friend retained by Burroughs, 1 letter to Burroughs from the publisher regarding the contract and approximately 20 pages of xeroxed copies of (rejected) illustrations for the book.

*Also contained in this portfolio are 8 of the original pen & ink drawings by Bob Gale. The first of these drawings is inscribed by Gale to Burroughs. All of the drawings are in fine condition on heavy drawing paper of various colors.

*Also included are 6 other drawings executed by Burroughs himself to give Gale ideas for various illustrations in the book. All of these drawings are in red or black ink on various types of paper. All contained in the original red legal-sized folder with Burroughs' original title for the book, Book of Breething, written in ink on the front cover in his hand. Additionally, there are 4 photocopied pages of a French translation in an unknown hand.

Second folio. This portfolio contains 8 original holograph hieroglyphic drawings in numerous colored inks by Burroughs (one signed) for the book. All of these hieroglyphs constitute early versions of illustrations used in the book and were later reworked by Bob Gale for publication. Contained in original blue folder with notes in pencil in Burroughs' hand on front cover.

Third folio. This portfolio contains a 12" x 9 1/2" unpublished photograph of Bob Gale. Preserved in the original green folder with note in Burroughs' hand on front cover. Photograph in poor condition.