Olson, Charles

O'Ryan 1-10

Detroit, MI: The Alternative Press, 1970. First Edition Thus. Stapled Sheets. Charles Olson (1910-1970), a literal & literary Giant in the canon of twentieth-century American poetry, first published some of these poems in a small edition during 1958; then expanded to ten poems in a larger edition during 1965 (see Butterick & Glover, A12 a-b, pgs. 11-12). In the deep, allusive Olsonian manner, the poems combine expansive mythology with contemporary, local minutia (Orion-O'Ryan, get it?) Just after Olson's death (January 10, 1970), the edition offered here was produced as a tribute by the Alternative Press in Detroit, founded & conducted by Ken Mikolowski & his late wife, Ann. The legendary Press published hand-crafted letterpress productions of works by many primary poets of the Beat Generation, New York & Black Mountain schools, etc. There is no reference to the publisher, limitation or any colophon information. We, however, are honored to be the friend & colleague of Ken Mikolowski, from whom we obtained this item. He explained to us that this is the only Olson-related publication the Press ever issued, & is quite possibly the first Olson edition to appear just-posthumously. As noted on front cover sheet, this was originally distributed "free (also priceless)," & has been occasionally mistaken for a piracy of unknown origin. Front & rear cover sheets are gold-letterpress on thick, high-quality paper. On rear cover is printed a line from one of Olson's Maximus poems from that monumental series, the final page/poem of Maximus VI in its entirety: "I set out now/ in a box upon the sea." Interior leaves are of a thinner, different paper stock that has moderately browned, with text of the ten O'Ryan poems that appears to be copied rather than letterpress printed. A unique, extremely rare & beautiful homage for the Olson acolyte & collector. In very fine condition with only browning of interior page leaves as noted above. Very Fine. [Item #3174]

Price: $50.00 save 20% $40.00