Firespitter [signed]
New York: Bola Press, 1982. Drawings by Melvin Edwards. First Edition. Saddle-stapled (6 x 9 inches) in illustrated stiff wraps. 47pp. Signed first printing of the fifth collection of poetry from Black Arts Movement poet Jayne Cortez (1936-2012), published on her own Bola Press and illustrated by her husband Melvin Edwards.
Cortez founded Bola in 1971 and first issued most of her own books and recordings on it. Bola Press editions of her work remain scarce, with this copy an exceptionally stunning and well-preserved example.
This copy signed "Jayne Cortez 11/22/1986" in black pen to title page. Newspaper records show that on that date, Cortez did a talk in Buffalo, NY with Robert Creeley, Jim Carroll, and Ed Sanders, where this copy was likely signed for an attendee. Good or better condition. Wraps edgeworn and soiled, some light creases and abrasions throughout; contents clean and binding strong. Item #3941
Price: $500.00