Malanga, Gerard

Sparrow 66: This Will Kill That

Santa Barbara, CA: Black Sparrow Press, 1978. First Printing. Stapled Wrappers. “Words die of thirst when they are not understood / I said / all is an act of courage / clarity / dignity / trust / curtain caught in the breeze of open window / rain coming in thru that same window / What happens when poems are not written / What happens when some play the game and win / What happens when we lie to ourselves / We tell ourselves there’s so much time / We become victims of choice / We go thru life not knowing the miracle” (from “Photographs of Architecture,” p. 1). The 66th number of the collectible series of pamphlets published by the venerable Black Sparrow Press & dated March 1978 on front cover, features the title poem by Gerard Malanga (b. 1943), the esteemed & pioneering poet, critic & performance artist. This pamphlet, which contains the title poem, as well as two other works (“All Hallows’ Eve” & “Creeping Beauty”) — with its mentions of Robert Creeley, for example (1926-2005), & a “John” that we’re almost sure is none other than John Wieners (1934-2002) — is replete with references to Malanga’s famed life in letters-&-culture, & representative of his genius as a poet. From the collection of Robin Eichele (b. 1941), noted Mimeograph Revolutionary & co-founder (with John Sinclair) of the Detroit Artists’ Workshop. Pamphlet in stapled wrappers: First Edition, though not explicated as such on copyright page; First Printing, with no reference to subsequent printings thereon. In very fine condition with only minor wear to fine edges, minimal discoloration due to aging, and very light rusting at staples. Very Fine. [Item #8029]

Price: $25.00