Science Fiction as Existentialism, Colin Wilson ā 1st Edition
In stock
Shipping is calculated at checkout.
Publication: Hayes, Middlesex, Bran's Head Books Ltd., 1978
Formatting: 8vo, pp. 16.
Condition Report: Very Good. The original dark blue card wrappers remain firmly attached and entirely intact, though they exhibit moderate, characteristic rubbing along the spine fold, resulting in some colour loss that reveals the underlying white stock. The corners are gently bumped, but the covers are otherwise clean and free from creasing or tears. Internally, the stapled binding remains perfectly secure. The pages are remarkably bright, crisp, and entirely free from foxing, handling marks, or oxidation, presenting an excellent reading experience.
Catalogue Note: First edition, first printing of this uncommon, late 1970s critical pamphlet issued as part of the 'Bran's Head Library of Science Fiction Criticism' series. In this brief but characteristically incisive essay, Colin Wilson examines the philosophical underpinnings of the science fiction genre, tying its speculative nature directly to his own phenomenological "New Existentialism."
Issued as a standalone softcover essay, such ephemeral pamphlets from small independent presses often suffer heavy wear or loss over time. Surviving copies in collectable, unmarked condition have become relatively scarce on the open market today, appealing to both Wilson completists and collectors of speculative fiction history.
In Science Fiction as Existentialism, acclaimed philosopher and outsider Colin Wilson turns his analytical eye to the realm of speculative fiction. Moving beyond simple genre tropes, Wilson argues that science fiction serves as a vital literary vehicle for exploring deep existential questions about human consciousness, freedom, and our place in the universe. A thought-provoking essay that bridges literary criticism and philosophy, this rare pamphlet offers a unique glimpse into the intersections of Wilson's 'New Existentialism' and the imaginative frontiers of science fiction.
Book Condition: Very Good
Book Authors: Colin Wilson
Book Publisher: Bran's Head Books Ltd.
Book Language: English
Narrative Type: Non-Fiction
Genre: Criticism & Essays
Book edition: First Edition
Signed: No
Book Pages: 16
Book Publication Year: 1978
Book Publication Date:
Book Binding: Softcover
Illustrator: N/A
Book Series: Bran's Head Library of Science Fiction Criticism
Country/region of manufacture: Hayes, Middlesex, 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 ā 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 ā 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 bookās 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 ā 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. |
Get in touch
You may also like
Join the Broadhurst Archive
Be the first to hear about rare new arrivals, signed editions, and literary events. A century of stories delivered straight to your inbox.