Clark, Tom

The End of the Line

Los Angeles, CA: Little Caesar Press, 1980. First Edition. Softcover. Signed by Tom Clark. "But one cannot rest in cognizance./ There dangles before us forever/ That bright hard medal/ Of character. It is/ Of a curious alloy./ One face hides a comical/ Smile behind its hand/ When it speaks the other's/ Name. And the other is serious." ("Cognizance is Good," pg. 35) A collection of poems written during 1978-1980 by Tom Clark (1941-2018), the dizzyingly prolific, multitalented poet, novelist, essayist, editor, biographer & artist who perhaps most exemplifies our category of "The Prolific & Underappreciated." While originally influenced by the New York School of which he is considered a member, Clark's poems as here have a compact acceleration, accessibility & profundity all their own. Large-format softcover original, first edition, (presumed) first printing of July 1980 as noted on copyright page. On the title page, in blank area between printed title & author, Clark has hand-written his signature in black ink. A relatively scarce Clark collectible, especially signed. In very fine condition with only slightest rubbing & occasional spotting to front, back covers & spine; mild wear & a few tiny bumps at edges & corners of same. Interior very fine with only tiny bumps, faint creases to (esp. upper) corners of page leaves. Very Fine. [Item #3750]

Price: $40.00