For Jan Wahl biography, see item #2000. 3.5x6.5" envelope addressed in ink w/handwritten return address "M. Sendak" on reverse. 8.25x11" sheet of unlined paper has been folded horizontally at center, forming letter format that reads like a book. Sendak's letter is three "pages" long and dated July 20. Written in fountain pen ink, letter contents include - "I Am Illustrating A Book & It Is Like Blindly Digging A Tunnel Underground. The Book Is A Manure Pile & I Dig Thru It." Letter also mentions his dog Jennie's illness (Jennie was celebrated in his "Higglety Pigglety Pop" book) writing "I Have No Personal Philosophy Or Attitude Towards Life - I Am Prepared For Nothing - I Simply Fall And Writhe." He goes on "Decay Is All Around & I Writhe. I Am Definitely No Good At This Living." Signed "Maurice." Envelope has tear at right side as opened, letter is folded as mailed. VF+. Important Sendak personal philosophical content to a friend and collaborator. The full letter is available to read online. From the Jan Wahl Collection. See previous items #s2000-2002 and following items #s2004-2007.