River-Root: A Syzygy for the Bicentennial of these States

Oyez, 1976. 1st Edition. Hardcover. Very Good. One of 250 copies (200 for sale), signed by Everson on the colophon. Copy 94. A tall quarto designed by Thomas Whitridge and printed at the Watsonville Press. Handsome half calf (leather) binding and gray paper boards. The dedication reads: "In preparing this manuscript for publication, its specifically American character became more keenly impressed upon that I had earlier felt it. And I realized that in issuing it during this 200th anniversary of our founding I am, in effect, offering it as a poet s gift to the Nation; and so dedicate it, as Whitman might have, to the Bicentennial of these States." A very good plus plus book, judged by its cover: Light bumping to a few corners, and a small tear to leather at top of spine. Subtle fade to the top of the front board and one bump to leather near spine. And a central wrinkle on the leather on the back board that looks rather like a "river-root." The interior is fine and lovely. "A powerful narrative poem exploring the archetypal syzygy of the sexual act. Situated on the Mississippi as a symbol of the American earth and the American mood, it narrates the ordeal of two lovers who, in the course of a single night, overcome the impasse that initially divides them, consummate their love in the heights of physical passion, and arise at dawn refreshed, restored, at one with themselves and their world." Whoa, baby. Please inquire for photos of book.