.MTQyNw.MTIzMjQx

April 8, 1950

Dear Jack,

Just a brief note of "thanks" for putting me wise to (Writers of My Generation) in Eileen Garrett's splendid magazine.

I think it "must" reading for every dreamy-eyed young writer and especially those knocking themselves out in journalism schools and the like. Already, I am aware that writing is sheer drudgery, which requires a powerful emotional drive, as well as capacity for self-discipline.

It has become a habit on my part, while browsing in bookshops to scan searchingly for 'The Disinherited.' Though I have read it, I still pursue it as an addition to my collection.

Excuse pen -- my typewriter is once again gathering dust in its second home; "Ye ole faithful damn dealer." My sightseeing tour in the role of an itinerant worker has me now on my 60th job (since '45) as a sewing machine mechanic apprentice. Add to this, employment as a steel worker, railroad worker, factory worker, dish washer, advertising and, and, and -- all with the idea, that the problem in writing isn't so much "how?" but "what?" what to write about.

Muriel is going to purchase 'Sam Patch' in San Fan. She's richer than I! Do you think the Conroy's have any way with money--or are they all Wednesday's Children?

Gratefully, Tom