August Wilson purchased his first typewriter from Kern Typewriter Store. This significant acquisition, which would play a pivotal role in his legendary career as a playwright, cost him $20.
The Purchase of a Playwright's Tool
The renowned playwright August Wilson acquired his typewriter from the Kern Typewriter Store. He obtained the funds for this purchase by writing a term paper for his sister, who was a student at Fordham. The paper, focusing on poets Robert Frost and Carl Sandburg, earned him the $20 he needed. As Wilson himself recounted to Playbill's Harry Haun, "I took the $20, and I went down to Kern Typewriter Store and spent it all in one place... I bought this typewriter for $20." This investment marked the beginning of his prolific writing journey, which would eventually yield ten powerful plays chronicling the African American experience throughout the 20th century.
Key Details of the Acquisition
The table below summarizes the essential information surrounding August Wilson's landmark purchase:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Seller | Kern Typewriter Store |
| Purchase Price | $20 |
| Method of Payment | Cash, earned from writing a term paper |
| Source of Funds | Writing a term paper on Robert Frost and Carl Sandburg for his sister, a Fordham student |
The Significance of the Typewriter
This typewriter wasn't just a machine; it was the instrument through which August Wilson would craft his Pulitzer Prize-winning plays, including Fences and The Piano Lesson. His early dedication to his craft, evidenced by earning money specifically for this tool, underscores his commitment to storytelling and his eventual rise as one of America's most celebrated playwrights. His plays continue to be performed worldwide, offering profound insights into American history and culture, particularly from an African American perspective.
- Impact on Career: The typewriter was instrumental in enabling Wilson to write his renowned cycle of plays, often referred to as "The Pittsburgh Cycle."
- Symbol of Dedication: The effort to earn money for the typewriter highlights Wilson's early passion and commitment to writing.
To learn more about August Wilson's life and work, you can explore resources like the Playbill article that recounts his purchase.
