Irving's relationship with American publishers was complex, marked by periods of collaboration, frustration, and eventual abandonment. This page details his interactions, challenges, and perspectives on publishing in the United States, often contrasting it with European approaches. The topic highlights Irving’s preference for publishing controversial works outside of mainstream channels and his concerns about photographic quality and editorial control.
Irving sought American publishing deals, particularly for translations of his works, but faced difficulties related to cost, editorial interference, and perceived ideological constraints. He expressed frustration with American publishers' reluctance to handle controversial material and their perceived compromises on quality, particularly regarding photographs. The diaries reveal a shift away from American publishers and a search for alternative avenues for distribution.
* 2019: Irving notes reading Udo Walendy's "Who Started World War II" and comparing it to Hoggan's "The Forced War," both diplomatic/political histories related to WWII. ([Source: diary_2019_jan_may]) * 2019: Irving drafts a letter to Mondadori, an Italian publisher who previously published his books, lamenting their mysterious withdrawal. ([Source: diary_2019_jan_may]) * 2021: Irving describes authors being pressured to conform to certain viewpoints and criticized for positive portrayals of Hitler, highlighting a perceived ideological constraint. ([Source: diary_2021]) * 2022: Irving mentions posting his "Goebbelsbook" on a website and online forums, indicating a shift towards self-publishing or alternative distribution channels. ([Source: diary_2022_jan_jun]) * 2023: Irving expresses interest in Mussolini’s papers, indicating a continued pursuit of historical research and potential publication opportunities. ([Source: diary_2023]) * 2023: Irving discusses needing advance payments from U.K. printers for Volume III of Churchill's War, highlighting financial constraints and reliance on international publishing arrangements. ([Source: diary_2023]) * 2023: Irving laments the British publishing industry falling into "enemy" hands, referencing Alan Samson and Weidenfeld & Nicolson. ([Source: emails_2023_2024])
Irving’s American publisher relations appear to have deteriorated over time. Initial attempts at collaboration were followed by frustration over editorial control, financial demands, and perceived ideological pressure. The shift towards self-publishing and reliance on international publishers (particularly in the UK) suggests a rejection of the American publishing landscape and a search for outlets more aligned with his views. The comment about the British publishing industry being in "enemy" hands suggests a broader conspiracy theory about control of historical narratives.
Veritas Publishing Churchill's War Mondadori Udo Walendy
* diary_2019_jan_may * diary_2021 * diary_2022_jan_jun * diary_2023 * emails_2023_2024