EAST IS EAST

This is the time of year when birds fly south and authors come east. Mr. Harry Hansen, erstwhile of the Chicago press but now on the staff of a New York paper; describes the sensations of migration--in his case a permanent one --in the current Bookman. Deep in a long paragraph one finds the enigmatic statement that--"Many authors are born in Chicago but they do not die there." Nor is this anti-Chicago propaganda, as Mr. Hansen carefully adds. Chicago is a very fine place--but not for authors; publishers' cheques are almost always drawn on New York banks. Besides the mercenary attitude there is also the aesthetic: My work is that of reviewing books. In Chicago this is still one of the minor occupations, whereas in New York it is a major industry." And misery loves company.

This summary of the advantages of New York residence for the authors, both struggling and successful, is a possible explanation why the much celebrated literary exodus to Chicago never came off. The western city, not long ago, was looked upon as the intellectual center of the United States. But in spite of the fact that several famous writers claim it as their birthplace the actual percentage of the American lit Mr. Mencken says that the dial is turnerary world living in Chicago is smalling toward the south and quotes names to prove it. But Mr. Hansen's argument remains invincible in at least one point--publishers cheques are drawn on New York banks. Other delights may pass from Manhattan life but this economic necessity remains.