March 25th, 1951
Dear Comrade Pollitt,
A little over two months has gone by since I sent Emile Burns twelve copies of my work: “I face the Sun,” for distribution to a sub-committee of the Party’s Cultural Committee. So far I have not heard a word. Would you be good enough to make an enquiry and let me know?
I am bringing this matter to you in order to save a bit of time–and a stamp, poets like myself are very poor–for I want to ask you, as Head of the Party, a question. Why is it, comrade, that the Editor of the Daily Worker can tell me that my poetry is dangerous to the working class and not be compelled to give a single reason for such a statement? As you are aware, I have asked for it.
I should like to bring to your memory the pamphlet I published. Without hesitation or quibbling I obeyed the command of the Party to hand them in although, and it’s a matter of some concern to me, I paid £40 odd for its publication. Nor did I protest at the rather curious ’interview’ I had with Johnny Mahon at the D.W. offices at the time. The fact was I was cross-examined–badgered would be a more accurate assessment–by Comrade Mahon with the aid of another comrade who happened to ’drop-in,’ in a room with a stenographer taking down behind my back everything I said. To examine a comrade in such a fashion is disgraceful.
I bring this matter up for it seems that an ordinary party member must answer for a breach of discipline, but the Editor of the D.W. is allowed to calumniate whom he pleases–and take steps on the quiet to reinforce the views of himself and his advisors, such as Emile Burns.
I have placed my poetry before a good many people–and I shall continue to do so–and before the Poetry Group of the Party. The first reaction of the Group and all individuals with the exception of one was enthusiastic–to speak mildly. But later, when I attempted to ask for criticism, for discussion–in the case of the Group by the Group–I have been met with absolute silence. Not a letter of mine has either been acknowledged let alone answered. It cannot be accidental, it is evident that influence has been brought to bear, that people in whom these individuals and the Group have a lot of respect for have been using their influence to destroy the effects of my poetry on them. Idris Cox is the latest such example. I wish you to examine this matter.
Yours fraternally,
ARTHUR EVANS.