Various (Bartlett, Lee; White, Peter (Editors); Butterick, George F.; Gefin, Laszlo; Howard, Leon; Levertov, Denise; Wakoski, Diane et al.)

American Poetry Vol. 1 No. 1 (Fall 1983)

Jefferston, NC: McFarland & Company, Inc., 1983. First Printing. Softcover. Signed by Diane Wakoski. This first number of the prestigious scholarly journal, edited by Lee Bartlett & Peter White, features a "Forum" section of essays under the topic-heading of "Sexual Poetics: Notes on Genre and Gender in Poetry by Women," with contributions by four distinguished American female poets including Denise Levertov & Diane Wakoski, the acclaimed & prolific poet who has long resided in Michigan. At the top of the first page of her essay entitled "Uneasy Rider" (pg. 77), wakoski has hand-written her signature with characteristic series of vertical doodles. Also in this premiere issue are various poetry-themed essays & reviews, including one by the late George F. Butterick, the great critical author most associated with the works of Charles Olson, "Maximus" Master of American poetry (here he reviews a critical work by Laszlo Gefin). The issue ends with a tribute to Leon Howard, a revered literary scholar who passed away late in the previous year (1982), & a memorial portrait of Howard graces the back cover. With notes on contributors, a few contemporary ads. The first & likely rarest issue in this most venerable series, greatly enriched by the signature of one of its most accomplished poet-essayists. In very fine condition with only very light rubbing to front, back covers & spine; mildest wear & a few tiny bumps at edges & corners of same; a few tiny spots on back cover not effecting image. Interior very fine with only tiny bumps at corners of a few page leaves. Very Fine. [Item #3437]

Price: $30.00