Beckett, Samuel

8vo, first edition, number 266 of 300 numbered copies, this copy additionally signed by Beckett on the verso of the limitation page, original red wrappers lettered in black, lacking wrap-around band but otherwise a near fine copy

Federman and Fletcher 5

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, when appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The author's first separately published work. The twenty-four year old Beckett penned this witty and learned poem about Descartes on 15 June 1930 as the winning entry to a poetry competition. In a letter to Nancy Cunard of 26 January 1959, Beckett recalled how he had written the "first half before dinner, had a guzzle of salad and Chambertin at the Cochon de Lait, went back to the Ecole and finished it about three in the morning. Then walked down to the rue Guénégaud and put it in your box. That's how it was and them were the days" (quoted by Knowlson, Damned to Fame. The Life of Samuel Beckett, 1996, p.112).