Kafka, Franz

Autograph letter signed ("Kafka"), 1 page (9 x 5 3/4 in.; 230 x 145 mm), in German, [Prague, ca. 1920?], to the poet Albert Ehrenstein; small tears at head and foot of letter not affecting text; airmail envelope addressed to Dolly Perutz in the hand of Albert Ehrenstein with the poet's return address; torn at right from removal of stamp

Albert Ehrenstein — to Dolly Perutz in July 1948 — by descent to the present owner

torn at right from removal of stamp
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

An extended dry spell. Kafka confides in the Viennese poet, Albert Ehrenstein, " ... for 3 years I have not  written anything, whatever was published is old stuff, I don't have other pieces, not even started ones ... ." He explains the reason for the dry spell with particular poignancy, " ... when worries have penetrated to a certain layer of inner existence, writing and complaining obviously cease, indeed my resistance was not too strong ... ." Kafka began to suffer from tuberculosis in 1917 which progressively affected his writing productivity.