Pound, Ezra (Translator); Stock, Noel (Translator)

Love Poems of Ancient Egypt

New York, NY, USA: New Directions, 1962. First Softcover Edition. Sewn Binding. "Mouse, why do you whisper love in your heart all day? | Why do you talk about her, incessantly | All the time, any time | Except when she is present in the flesh? | Damn it all, man, | Go to her, and try to look as if you mean business!" ("IV," pgs. 28-29). "Love Poems of Ancient Egypt," a collection featuring evocative love poems translated by American poet, critic & major figure in the early modernist poetry movement, Ezra Pound (1885-1972) & renowned Australian poet, Pound biographer & professor Noel Stock (1929-2013), based on literal renderings of hieroglyphic texts into Italian by Egyptologist (and Pound's son-in-law) Boris de Rachewiltz (1926-1997). The poems reflect the depth and complexity of human emotions and relationships in ancient Egypt, showcasing themes of longing, devotion, and intimate connections that transcend time. The numerous love poems from this period illuminate many of the attitudes of the Egyptians and seem to have been powerfully influential on other peoples, notably the Hebrews, whose own love poetry bears some striking resemblances to them. As is the case with most ancient verse, none of the authors' names are known. They lack titles, and are referred to here by their first lines. These poems, often found in papyrus and pottery inscriptions, reflect the joy and sorrow of love, as well as the cultural values and beliefs of the time. We grudgingly acknowledge that despite his virulent anti-semitism, Pound's work is a testament to his skill as a translator and his deep appreciation for the art of poetry. From the collection of scholar, poet and our dear friend Robin Eichele (b. 1941), noted Mimeograph Revolutionary & co-founder of the Detroit Artists' Workshop with the late, great John Sinclair (1941-2024). At half-title page, Eichele has written his ownership signature in onyx black ink: "Robin Eichele." Chapbook with sewn binding in Dust Jacket: First Softcover Edition, first printing though neither explicated as such at copyright page. A most collectible Pound translation/Poetry entry in one of its rarest contemporary forms, with very distinguished provenance. Chapbook in relatively fine condition with mild age-toning mostly to front, back covers & spine; mild rubbing & bumping of corners to same; occasions of very mild spot-staining to front & back covers; mild-to-moderate age-toning, spot-staining & rubbing to text block. Interior fine with mild age-toning mostly to blank margins & fine edges of page leaves; blue marginalia to pages: 2-3, 8-9, 28, and 33. Fine. [Item #8658]

Price: $35.00