THE LONG REACH. NEW & UNCOLLECTED POEMS 1948-1984

NY: New Directions, 1983. First edition, first prnt. Inscribed by Eberhart on the title page. "To -- with warmest regards, Richard Eberhart." Eberhart dated his inscription at the bottom of the page as was his custom, "November 1984" and also wrote "see back page" with an arrow. On the back page Eberhart has written a 125 word note that reads as a response to the inscrptee's question. "I do recall Tennyson's 'The Eagle' but should look it up." Eberhart then reminisces about his introduction to writing poetry. "I want to tell you that when I was fifteen... our teacher asked the class to write a poem. I went home and found in the family library the poems of Alfred Lord Tennyson. I fell excitedly under their spell because of the musicality of his verse and the perfection of his rhymes .... it was as enthralling as running the hundred yard dash. So I got my start with Tennyson... " Dated "11/15/84." The content of this reminiscence with many similar sentences appeared the following year in "A Celebration of Teachers" (1985: 14-15) published by the NCTE and reprinted in "Negative Capability." Vol.VI, nos II & III. That issue, inscribed by Eberhart on the title to the same person, is included in this lot. "To --- Greetings and all best wishes from Richard Eberhart" and dated by him at the bottom of the page, "Hanover, N.H. October 11, 1986." The magazine is in Fine condition. The book has beginning foxing on page edges, small bump to front board topedge. Very Good condition in a Fine dustjacket with an archival cover. Sold as a lot only.. Inscribed By Author with Note. First Edition. Hardcovers. Very Good/Fine. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall.