Books

London: Hacon and Ricketts, The Vale Press, 1902. First editions thus. First editions thus. Tall 8vo. Two separate titles, five total volumes (two Keats, three Shelley). A superb set of both Vale Press titles, sold here together, since bound similar, and obviously stored safely together by the same owner, as all five volumes in fine condition. Bound in publisher's original beige smooth buckram cloth. Borders, initials and decorations, including a full-page decorative title in each volume of the Shelley, and double-page title spread in the Keats, by Charles Ricketts. Spine as near to original hue as ever seen. Browning to prelims in the Keats, but no browning in the three Shelley volumes, amazingly. Shelley all three volumes unopened.The finest set we have seen in some time.

"Poems" by John Keats, published in 1817, marks the initial foray of the celebrated Romantic poet into the literary world. This collection encompasses a diverse array of poems that encapsulate Keats's exploration of themes such as nature, beauty, love, and the transient nature of life. Among the notable pieces in this collection are Keats's renowned odes, including "Ode to a Nightingale," where he delves into the contrast between the immortal beauty of art and the transient nature of human existence. In "Ode on a Grecian Urn," he muses on the eternal nature of art and its ability to capture moments frozen in time. The collection also features his sonnets, showcasing Keats's skill in capturing complex emotions and sentiments in a concise yet evocative form. Poems like "On First Looking into Chapman's Homer" express his awe and exhilaration upon discovering Homer's works through the translation by George Chapman. Keats's appreciation for the beauty of the natural world is evident throughout the collection. His vivid descriptions and sensuous imagery in poems such as "To Autumn" paint a captivating picture of seasonal beauty, showcasing his ability to intertwine the human experience with the splendor of nature. The themes of love and desire permeate several of Keats's works in this collection. Poems like "Bright Star" express his longing for enduring love and immortal fame, while "La Belle Dame sans Merci" explores the enchantment and peril of romantic entanglement. "Poems" serves as a testament to Keats's remarkable poetic talent, displaying his mastery of language, vivid imagery, and profound exploration of universal themes. Although this collection initially received mixed reviews and modest recognition during Keats's lifetime, it has since solidified his reputation as one of the most influential and revered poets in English literature. His rich and evocative verses continue to resonate with readers, captivating them with their emotional depth and timeless beauty.

A true first edition can be identified by the absence of any mention of subsequent printings on the copyright page and potentially by specific features identified by specialists in Keats's work or contemporary bibliographies.