Holt publishing

[John Pendergast]

I am curious about the demonization of the Henry Holt publishing
company. I don't know much (read anything) about the publishing
industry, but it does seem odd that Holt seems to be blaimed for any
assumed "selling out" on the part of Pynchon. Are they any worst than
other publishing companies that Pynchon has seemingly worked with in the
past? (The plural in the last sentence reflects my ignorance about his
publishing history)

Also, is there really more publicizing going on with this novel than
others? I came upon P. as a dazed graduate student reading the cheapest
paper back edition I could find, so the joy of reading him in new, sexy
editions was reserved for Vineland, which doesn't really count (which
brings me to another question I have had since joining the group--does
anyone out there have a good word to say for Vineland? I don't, so far,
but I think it is the least considered book, at least by me, and so I
don't feel completely confortable writing it off).

God bless, and may you live to see your children's children.

John Pendergast