Train Ride [signed and numbered]
New York: vehicle editions, 1978. One of 1474 softcover copies of the first edition's 1500, of which 26 are hardcover and signed and numbered (which, curiously, this somehow is as well despite its binding). Perfect-bound in illustrated red and white card wrappers. Red endpapers. Book-length poem by Ted Berrigan (1934-1983), written in 1971 for his close friend Joe Brainard (1942-1994) over the span of a single train ride from New York to Berrigan's hometown of Providence, RI. Brainard, an accomplished artist and writer himself, here contributes the cover art. This copy signed to title page and numbered ("this is copy #3 of 26") to edition page, which curiously strays from the called for edition statement of 26 hardcover copies to be signed and numbered. Very possibly, Berrigan issued this or more bibliographic red herrings into the world as a way of playing a merry prank or to sell the copy for a little more dough in hard times, as he was known to occasionally do with his own books. Very good condition. Toned spine; wraps edgeworn and soiled some; contents clean. A strong, well-preserved copy. Item #3945
Price: $275.00