The Lumley Autograph

"The Lumley Autograph" by Susan Fenimore Cooper is a funny story from the 1800s that makes fun of people's obsession with collecting autographs. It's about a poor, hungry poet whose letter, written for help, becomes a prized item that everyone wants. The story takes place in a gloomy London in November. The letter's journey, from seeking help to being a valuable collectible, shows how silly the desire for literary fame can become. As the letter changes hands, the story pokes fun at those who only care about having a famous signature without understanding the artist's real struggles. The letter’s eventual disappearance at a party full of collectors shows how quickly fame can vanish and questions what we truly value in art.