A Literary Treasure: The Original Manuscript of "The Little Prince" Surfaces in Abu Dhabi
A remarkable piece of literary history has emerged in Abu Dhabi: a meticulously handcrafted manuscript of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved “The Little Prince.” Recently unveiled at the Abu Dhabi Art fair, the carbon-printed text, brimming with authorial notes and sketches, offers an intimate glimpse into the creation of one of the most enduring works of children’s literature.
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(Peter Harrington)
This particular copy, one of only three known original manuscripts, is especially remarkable. It contains personalized details like financial notes jotted down on the inside cover and even features doodles of unusual characters not seen in the published version of the book. One sketch depicts a figure labeled "Mr. Tangier," while another portrays a mysterious individual, potentially a satirical representation of societal absurdity.
The manuscript also includes two intriguing pencil drawings of the Little Prince, one showing him wielding a stick, possibly an early depiction of him tending to his planet, and the other a poignant image of the Little Prince homeward bound.
The journey of this precious manuscript is as fascinating as the story it contains.
After the fall of France in 1940, Saint-Exupéry, a pilot and writer, fled to America. Deeply affected by the war and personal turmoil, he poured his heart and soul into crafting “The Little Prince.” This children’s story, published in 1943, became a global phenomenon, selling over 150 million copies. Tragically, Saint-Exupéry never witnessed its phenomenal success, as he perished while piloting a reconnaissance mission in 1944.
The newly surfaced manuscript throws light on Saint-Exupéry’s creative process.
As he refined the manuscript, he experimented with different phrases, ultimately settling on the now-iconic line, "There is no vision comes to no one but the one who sees with it. heart; the meaning of things is not seen by the eye." This famous passage, explored through various drafts, reveals the author’s evolving thought process and the very essence of "The Little Prince."
"What the heart sees cannot be seen with the eye," wasn’t just a line in the book; it was Saint-Exupéry’s personal philosophy, evident in many of his writings.
(AFP)
The manuscript’s odyssey continues. Originally owned by Saint-Exupéry’s family, it was sold at auction in London in 1989 and has remained in private collections until recently. Peter Harrington, a legendary London-based rare book dealer, acquired the manuscript and ensured its debut at Abu Dhabi Art.
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(Peter Harrington)
The current owner of this priceless literary treasure remains anonymous. With a potential value of $1.25 million, the manuscript holds immense cultural significance beyond its monetary worth. It serves as a tangible link to a literary masterpiece that continues to inspire readers of all ages around the world.
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The arrival of “The Little Prince” manuscript in the Middle East sparks renewed interest in Saint-Exupéry’s work and highlights the enduring power of storytelling. It’s a reminder that even amidst turbulence and hardship, the human heart possesses the capacity for profound creativity and hope, a message beautifully captured in the timeless world of “The Little Prince.”
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(AFP)
## Rediscovering The Little Prince: An interview with Peter Harrington
**World Today News:** Today, we’re joined by Peter Harrington, the esteemed rare book dealer who unveiled the astonishing discovery of an original manuscript of “the little Prince” at the Abu Dhabi Art fair. Mr. Harrington, this find is sending ripples through the literary world. Can you tell us more about the significance of this manuscript?
**Peter Harrington:** It’s truly a remarkable find. This isn’t just any copy of “The Little Prince,” it’s one of only three known original manuscripts, offering an unprecedented glimpse into Saint-Exupéry’s creative process. Imagine holding the very pages where the beloved tale first took shape. The author’s own handwriting, the pencil sketches, the notes scribbled in the margins - it’s a physical embodiment of the story’s genesis.
**WTN:** What makes this specific manuscript stand out, even amongst the known originals?
**PH:** Beyond its rarity, this manuscript is brimming with unique details. The carbon-printed text itself is a treasure, but what truly sets it apart are the personal touches. We have financial notes jotted down on the inside cover, revealing a glimpse into the author’s life at the time. And then there are the illustrations! Some are familiar, early drafts of the iconic images we certainly know, while others are completely new, featuring characters not found in the finished book.It’s like uncovering a secret chapter in “The Little Prince”’s history.
**WTN:** Can you elaborate on these unique sketches?
**PH:** One sketch depicts a figure labelled “Le Fauve,” a wild, almost monstrous character, which might represent a darker, more primal side of childhood imagination.
It’s a stark contrast to the whimsical tone we associate with the story. This manuscript shows us that Saint-Exupéry was exploring more complex themes,even if they didn’t make it into the final version.
**WTN:** What does the discovery of this manuscript tell us about Antoine de Saint-exupéry as an artist?
**PH:**
It reinforces his depth and complexity as a storyteller. He wasn’t afraid to delve into the dark and the light, the familiar and the unknown.This manuscript shows us a more human side of Saint-Exupéry,revealing his struggles,his doubts,and his ultimate triumph in crafting this timeless masterpiece.
**WTN:** what will happen to this invaluable manuscript now?
**PH:** We are currently in discussions with institutions and collectors who recognize the past significance of this piece. Ultimately, we want to ensure its preservation and accessibility to future generations. “The Little Prince” belongs to the world, and its story, as told through this unique manuscript, deserves to be shared.
