Expert: Josh Silverstein - 4/23/2006

Question
Dear Mr. Silverstein

I own a book titled "Jack the Giant Killer" (a children's pop-up
book published in 1932).  On the title page of the book,
Hemingway has inscribed: "To Dr. K.M. P.A. Taylor with very best
regards from his friend Ernest Hemingway".

He has also made one other note.  On the title page is a picture
of the giant's upper body, and Hemingway has drawn an arrow
pointing to the throat of the giant, and written "Goiter?"

It appears to be an inside joke between Hemingway and Dr.
Taylor.  I know that towards the end of 'For Whom the Bell Tolls'
Hemingway refers to liquor as "Giant Killer".  Perhaps Dr. Taylor
and he shared some bond pertaining to drinking, or Dr. Taylor
treated him?  The two of them were obviously very close.

Mr. Silverstein, can you shed some light on who Dr. K.M. P.A.
Taylor might be?  I"ll be happy to send a copy of the title page if
that would help.  Thank you very much.

Phil Taylor
408 398 5555
salotur@yahoo.com

Answer
Hello Phil,

I checked a number of Hemingway biographies and also Hemingway's selected letters and I was unable to find reference to this individual. Hemingway had a friend named Taylor Williams (could find no evidence that he called him doctor) and he also knew actor Robert Taylor.

Sorry that I could not be of more assistance.



Sincerely,


Josh Silverstein
Webmaster
Timeless Hemingway

http://www.timelesshemingway.com
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