In light of
Andy Baio's settlement with Jay Maisel,
this 1964 letter from the Campbell Soup product manager to Andy Warhol serves as the ideal way to respond to transformative works:
Transcript:
Campbell SOUP Company
CAMDEN 1, NEW JERSEY
May 19, 1964
Mr. A. Warhol
1342 Lexington Avenue
New York, New York
Dear Mr. Warhol:
I have followed your career for some time. Your work has evoked a great deal of interest here at Campbell Soup Company for obvious reasons.
At one time I had hoped to be able to acquire one of your Campbell Soup label paintings - but I'm afraid you have gotten much too expensive for me.
I did want to tell you, however, that we admired your work and I have since learned that you like Tomato Soup. I am taking the liberty of having a couple of cases of our Tomato Soup delivered to you at this address.
We wish you continued success and good fortune.
Cordially,
(Signed, 'William P. MacFarland')
William P. MacFarland
Product Marketing Manager
via
Daniel Jalkut,
Dan Abrams