First edition of this experimental work of prose and poetry by Mayer, a central figure of the second-generation New York School, exploring utopian possibilities through a characteristically unconventional synthesis of language, politics, social observation, and personal experience. 8vo (5.5 × 8.25 inches), printed red wrappers, 149 pages including index. With a substantial original pen-and-ink drawing attributed to Mayer on the half-title, an exuberant composition of geometric, floral, and abstract forms, spirals, and densely patterned passages, closely resembling her documented cover artwork for Eruditio Ex Memoria (Angel Hair Books, 1977). The name “Marie Warsh,” Mayer's daughter with poet Lewis Warsh, appears prominently above the drawing, with “Marie” also incorporated in small lettering within the composition, suggesting a personal or familial subject. Beneath the drawing Mayer has inscribed: “On Staten Island / last day of January / Bernadette Mayer.” From the estate of poet Gerard Rizza (1959–1992), a participant in the later New York School and Poetry Project milieu whose sole collection, Regard for Junction (1992), appeared with an introduction by Mayer. Although not explicitly inscribed to Rizza, the Staten Island reference is particularly resonant given his involvement in that literary community and his documented personal and literary association with Mayer. A compelling association copy, distinguished by an elaborate drawing, an intimate family reference, and a specific geographical and temporal inscription. Minor ink splatter to front wrapper, toning to top edge of front free endpaper.
First edition of this experimental work of prose and poetry by Mayer, a central figure of the second-generation New York School, exploring utopian possibilities through a characteristically unconventional synthesis of language, politics, social observation, and personal experience. 8vo (5.5 × 8.25 inches), printed red wrappers, 149 pages including index. With a substantial original pen-and-ink drawing attributed to Mayer on the half-title, an exuberant composition of geometric, floral, and abstract forms, spirals, and densely patterned passages, closely resembling her documented cover artwork for Eruditio Ex Memoria (Angel Hair Books, 1977). The name “Marie Warsh,” Mayer's daughter with poet Lewis Warsh, appears prominently above the drawing, with “Marie” also incorporated in small lettering within the composition, suggesting a personal or familial subject. Beneath the drawing Mayer has inscribed: “On Staten Island / last day of January / Bernadette Mayer.” From the estate of poet Gerard Rizza (1959–1992), a participant in the later New York School and Poetry Project milieu whose sole collection, Regard for Junction (1992), appeared with an introduction by Mayer. Although not explicitly inscribed to Rizza, the Staten Island reference is particularly resonant given his involvement in that literary community and his documented personal and literary association with Mayer. A compelling association copy, distinguished by an elaborate drawing, an intimate family reference, and a specific geographical and temporal inscription. Minor ink splatter to front wrapper, toning to top edge of front free endpaper.
