first edition
1981 · (Oxford, MS / New Orleans)
by Faulkner, William; Collins, Carvel
(Oxford, MS / New Orleans): Tulane University and Yoknapatawpha Press, 1981. First edition. Fine in fine box.. Limited edition facsimile reproduction of Faulkner's love poems from the original 1926 manuscript, issued in a handsome boxed set together with Collins's discussion of the biographical background for the work. Faulkner's sonnets left their subject and object, Helen Baird, rather unmoved: at least, unmoved in the direction of Bill Faulkner. Faulkner authority Collins takes some trouble to refute the oft-repeated story that Baird said of MOSQUITOES, his second novel, dedicated to her, "Don't read it, it's no good." On the contrary, Baird reportedly said much later that her failed suitor "really can string words together." It's not requited love, but it's something. Two volumes in 8'' x 6'' box. HELEN: Original decorative paper boards with paper label. Unpaginated. Edition of 170 copies, of which 150 are for sale; this copy no. 27. BIOGRAPHICAL: Blue wrappers. In original clamshell box.
(Inventory #: 50805)