The A.A. Grapevine — January 1947 | Volume III, No. 8 | Dr. Silkworth & Bill W. Articles

An original January 1947 issue of The A.A. Grapevine, published during the early years of Alcoholics Anonymous and featuring an especially strong collection of articles on relapse, spiritual growth, group governance, personal inventory, and the expanding reach of A.A.

This issue is particularly notable for its lead article by Dr. William D. Silkworth, the physician whose medical understanding of alcoholism had a profound influence on Bill W. and the early development of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Dr. William D. Silkworth on Relapse

The cover article, “Doctor Calls ‘Slip’ More Normal than Alcoholic,” was written by Dr. William D. Silkworth.

In the article, Silkworth addresses the subject of relapse and argues against treating the alcoholic as fundamentally different or mysterious. He emphasizes that a “slip” should be understood in the context of human behavior rather than as something uniquely peculiar to alcoholics.

His discussion reflects the medical perspective that helped shape early A.A. thinking: alcoholism as an illness, the importance of understanding the alcoholic without moral condemnation, and the need for continued vigilance in recovery.

For collectors of early A.A. history, any original Grapevine appearance by Dr. Silkworth is especially significant because of his close connection to Bill W. and his role in the medical history surrounding Alcoholics Anonymous.

“Will A.A. Ever Have a Personal Government?” — By Bill

Another important article in this issue is “Will A.A. Ever Have a Personal Government?”, written by Bill.

Here Bill explores one of the central questions facing the rapidly growing Fellowship: whether Alcoholics Anonymous should ever develop a governing authority with power over its members and groups.

His answer is essentially no.

Bill discusses spiritual principle, voluntary participation, rotating service, the absence of coercive authority, and the idea that A.A. leaders and committees should function as servants rather than rulers.

The article is an important early expression of ideas that would become central to A.A.’s Traditions and service structure.

“What’s Your Score?” — An Early Personal Inventory Chart

The issue also includes “What’s Your Score?”, a personal inventory chart designed to help members examine their own recovery.

The checklist asks readers to consider such questions as honesty, resentment, fear, patience, tolerance, gratitude, self-control, helpfulness to others, and the effort being made to overcome undesirable habits.

It is a fascinating example of how early A.A. members used practical self-examination tools alongside the Twelve Steps.

Additional Content

Other notable material includes:

• “Alcoholic Ills and A.A. Compared to Mankind”
• “Natural Tendencies Oftimes Damaging”
• “Mail Call for All A.A.s at Home or Abroad”
• “A.A. Digest — Excerpts from Group Publications”
• “The Pleasures of Reading”
• Reports on A.A. growth throughout New England and other regions
• Early reports from Alaska, Canada, Texas, and other developing A.A. communities
• News of new groups, hospitals, prison work, and outreach
• Humorous “Alky Album” illustrations
• Early discussion of A.A. and medical treatment

The issue provides an excellent snapshot of Alcoholics Anonymous at a time when the Fellowship was still developing its identity, service principles, literature, and national network of groups.

Issue Details

Publication: The A.A. Grapevine
Date: January 1947
Volume: III
Number: 8
Format: Original large-format monthly magazine
Cover Article: “Doctor Calls ‘Slip’ More Normal than Alcoholic”
Cover Author: Dr. William D. Silkworth
Notable Article: “Will A.A. Ever Have a Personal Government?” by Bill
Additional Highlight: “What’s Your Score?” personal inventory chart

Condition

This original January 1947 issue remains in good condition for its age.

The issue shows general age toning, scattered staining and discoloration, light edge wear, and several creases consistent with handling and storage. There are small edge tears and minor areas of paper loss, particularly at the upper corners and along the outer margins.

The center fold and spine area show expected wear, but the issue remains intact and readable. The interior printing is clear, and the important Silkworth and Bill W. articles remain complete and easy to read.

Please review all photographs carefully for a complete understanding of the condition and appearance.

A particularly desirable early issue of The A.A. Grapevine, combining an important article by Dr. William D. Silkworth, a major piece by Bill W. on A.A. governance, and an early personal inventory tool—all from a formative period in Alcoholics Anonymous history.