On the Suchness of the Old Boy, Lawrence Durrell — 1st Edition, Limited
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Publication: London, Turret Books, 1972
Formatting: Small 4to, pp. [22].
Condition Report: Near Fine. The original brown decorated paper wrappers remain exceptionally crisp, bright, and free from the fading or edge-wear typically associated with this delicate format. The spine and corners are sharp and uncreased, while the vibrant black and yellow typographic design is entirely unrubbed. Internally, the binding remains secure and tight. The pages are bright, fresh, and completely devoid of foxing or toning, ensuring the text and illustrations remain bold. An attractive armorial bookplate is affixed to the front free endpaper, providing a factual trace of provenance that does not detract from the volume's otherwise pristine condition.
Catalogue Note: This is a First Edition, strictly limited to a total of 226 copies, of which this is number 180 of the 200 numbered copies offered for sale. Notably, this copy has been dual-signed by both the author, Lawrence Durrell, and the illustrator, Sappho Durrell, on the limitation page. The volume is profusely illustrated with Sappho Durrell’s surreal line drawings, which interact seamlessly with the text.
Given the small limitation, the fragile nature of the paper wrappers, and the presence of both signatures, this collaborative edition remains a scarce and desirable acquisition on the open market, especially when preserved in such excellent condition.
On the Suchness of the Old Boy is a playfully eccentric poetry chapbook by the acclaimed author Lawrence Durrell. Through his characteristically rich and witty verse, Durrell offers a wry commentary on the peculiar nature of aging and existence. This intimate work is brought to life by the strikingly surreal and provocative line drawings of his daughter, Sappho Durrell, making it a unique and visually engaging testament to their collaborative creative spirit.
Book Condition: Near Fine
Book Authors: Lawrence Durrell
Book Publisher: Turret Books
Book Language: English
Narrative Type: Antiquarian
Genre: Poetry
Book edition: First Edition
Signed: Yes
Book Pages: 22
Book Publication Year: 1972
Book Publication Date:
Book Binding: Softcover
Illustrator: Sappho Durrell
Book Series: N/A
Country/region of manufacture: London, United Kingdom
Book Dimensions:
Book Condition Guide
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| New | A brand-new, unread and professionally handled book. Carefully preserved from publication to purchase, these books are offered in the best attainable condition. This grade applies to recently published titles that have not entered long-term storage. |
| As New | The book is in pristine, original condition as if just published. No signs of use or handling. The dust jacket (if present) is equally flawless. This grade applies to any book that has remained untouched in storage for years. |
| Fine | The book is close to As New. It remains bright and attractive, but could show minor imperfections to the boards and/or dust jacket (if present). Its pages are typically clean and unmarked. |
| Near Fine | The book has a number of small flaws, i.e. slight rubbing to the edges, or tiny chips or creases to the dust jacket (if present). Its pages may have faint marks, or creases that are barely perceptible — nothing that detracts from their overall condition. |
| Very Good | The book maintains its structural integrity, and has no major flaws such as tears to its binding or pages. It may, however, show signs of careful use, handling, or storage — small marks and creases, light foxing. Its dust jacket (if present) remains fully intact, but small tears may be present. |
| Good | A book that remains intact and readable with complete text pages, but shows moderate signs of wear and use to both the book and dust jacket (if present). It may have noticeable creases, nicks, or stains, and the spine likely shows fading, bumping, and rubbing. There could be writing, underlining, and other marks on some pages, though the majority will be clean and tidy. |
| Fair | A book with significant wear or damage. The text pages will be complete, but there may be heavy underlining, highlighting and staining throughout, and the book’s endpapers, half-title, and copyright pages could be damaged or missing. The binding could be loose, and the dust jacket (if present) may have notable scuffs or tears. These copies are usually of interest for content, signature(s) or scarcity. |
| Poor | A heavily worn book whose value lies in its complete and legible text. A poor book will have substantial defects — loose joints or hinges, detached covers, loose and/or missing pages, and could be heavily soiled. A poor book is also known as a reading copy, and although compromised, can hold historical or bibliographic significance. |
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