The
novel that later went on to sell 50 million copies and become a timeless,
esteemed classic first had to endure numerous rejections from publishing houses,
including this one written by Mrs. Blanche Knopf herself. [ ]
Blanche Knopf’s 1956 rejection letter, from the Knopf archives, reads:
Darling,
This office has taken a long time to say no to
Nabokov’s Lolitawhich
you and I both know was impossible at least for us. Do you want the books back?
I don’t imagine so in which case we will keep it for our blank department. But
let me know. I wonder if any publisher will buy it.
Will
you please tell Renée that I had her charming letter. I have no news except that
the Coco is holding his own. As soon as I know more, I will write. But it was
enchanting of her to send me a line, and I am very grateful. We have all been
upset about this affair.
Bless. And all the best.
As always,
Mrs. W.A. Bradley
18
Quai de Bethune
Paris 4, FRANCE