1900 - Leaves of Grass

By Walt Whitman

Published 1900
David McKay, Publishers/ Philadelphia

Including A Facsimile Autobiography Variorum Readings of the Poems and a Department of Gathered Leaves.

An informative work of American poetry that is considered one of the most important books in the history of American literature. Written by Walt Whitman, the book was first published in 1855 and went through several revisions and editions over the course of Whitman's lifetime.

This decorative 1900 edition, published by the author’s friend, David McKay, posthumously includes revisions and updates that Whitman made to the book over the course of several decades. It includes a 2-page fold-out facsimile of his authobiographical notes, illustrations, and a variorum reading of the poems.
There are several reasons why "Leaves of Grass" is so significant with one being that It celebrated democracy and individualism: Whitman's poetry celebrated the American spirit of democracy and individualism. His vision of America was one in which every person had the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life, regardless of their background or social status. 
It addressed important social and political issues: "Leaves of Grass" addressed many of the social and political issues of Whitman's time, including slavery, sexuality, and the Civil War. Whitman's poetry was bold and unflinching, and he used his words to advocate for justice and equality. Another, is it influenced generations of writers: "Leaves of Grass" had a profound influence on American literature, and it continues to inspire writers today. Whitman's poetry was a key influence on the Beat Generation, and his legacy can be seen in the work of writers like Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, and Bob Dylan.

Green cloth with gilt lettering and black stamped detail to front board, gilt decorative detail/ lettering to spine, gilt top edges, portrait frontispiece with tissue guard, 2 pull-out sections of facsimile handwritten autobiography notes by author, illustrated within, Bumping to spine edges, very minor rubbing to corners, 526pp. Name inscription/ date to front endpaper. Book in excellent condition.

Size: 5 1/2” x 8 1/4”

A very beautiful edition!