Books

George Bell & Sons. London. 1897. FIRST ANNING-BELL EDITION. Delux limited edition issue, one of just 125 numbered copies printed on Japanese vellum. 8vo. (8.8 x 5.6 inches). Fully illustrated with Frontis and title page, three double page section title pages, printed in red and black, plus twenty full page plates, and dozens of smaller illustrations in line throughout the text. Colour plate, printed in burgundy and green and reproducing the decorative vinyard design that was used on the binding of the trade edition, bound in before the Limitation leaf and half title. Page edges uncut with some gatherings unopened. Original publishers plain oatmeal coloured cloth binding with black and red lettering and dolphin, flower and bell publishers motif designed by Anning Bell stamped in black to the spine. Plain white endpapers. Presumably issued in a relatively plain binding with expectations that these special Japanese Vellum copies would be bound in fine leather bindings. A rare edition of…

"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.