Books

Hammersmith: Doves Press, 1902. ONE OF 325 COPIES on paper (and 25 on vellum). 233 x 165 mm. (9 1/4 x 6 1/2"). 55, [1] pp. EXTREMELY ATTRACTIVE DARK BLUE CRUSHED MOROCCO, GILT, IN THE STYLE OF THE DOVES BINDERY (stamp-signed and dated 1909 on rear turn-in), covers with gilt frame formed by interlocking double rules, side- and cornerpieces with oakleaf clusters accented by open circles and solid dots, large double gilt-rule lozenge in central panel, raised bands, spine gilt in compartments with open circle at center, an oakleaf cluster extending above and below it, dots in corners, gilt vertical titling, gilt-ruled turn-ins with oakleaf clusters at corners, all edges gilt and gauffered with two rows of dots. In a blue cloth slipcase. Tomkinson, p. 45; Tidcombe DP-4. For the binding: Tidcombe, p. 463 ◆The usual faint offsetting from the facing turn-ins on the front and rear free endpaper, half a dozen leaves with minor foxing just to the lower fore-edge corner, otherwise VERY FINE,…

"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.