Author: JANIS, Elsie (1889-1956)
Title: Inscribed Document Signed
Description: The "Sweetheart of the AEF" was an American vaudevillian and comedian who conquered Broadway and London in popular shows, appearing also in a handful of silent and talking films and even writing film scripts and film music. IDS, 1p, heavy stock 3 3/4" X 6", n.p. n.y. Fine. As a kind of spokesperson for the American Expeditionary Forces in "Liberty Bonds" fundraisers and entertaining troops near the front, Janis apparently composed the 4-stanza poem printed on this card, titled "Lest We Forget" and "Dedicated to the Boys of the A.E.F." In forgettable verse expressing views only a nonparticipant could believe, it opens: "Well! boys la guerre est fini, / And, of course, we are glad; / But as time goes on we'll realize / That the war was not so bad. / Of course it had its drawbacks, / But it had its glories, too.." Along the top, she boldly inscribes it "To Mrs Ladd / So sorry I did not / see you," and below the poem's close she signs large and bold. A delightful, scarce and downright weird period piece. .

Keywords: Film & Theater


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