The Curious Republic of Gondour and Other Whimsical Sketches
New York: Boni and Liveright, 1919. First Edition. Hardcover. Duodecimo. x, 140 pages.
The short stories and essays in this collection originally appeared in periodicals under Clemens's pseudonym, Mark Twain. They are here collected and published in book form for the first time, crediting the author under his real name.
The title story is a witty political allegory of a fictional republic where each citizen is guaranteed at least one vote. However, citizens can earn additional votes through education and wealth, while those seeking office must first pass rigorous exams. It is Clemens's critique of democracy, suggesting that intelligence and personal merit should play a greater role, while highlighting his concerns about uninformed leaders.
The remaining pieces address social customs, human nature and its absurdities, personal anecdotes, and more. Uncommon Clemens/Twain item--particularly in the original dust jacket.
Ref. BAL 3527; MCBRIDE p. 246.
Near fine in a very good dust jacket. Bound in rough yellow paper over boards with white cloth spine. upper board and spine titled and ornamented in black. Minor rubs at spine ends, slight age-toning to endpaper inner margins, else fine. Jacket has mild browning and light soil, a few shallow edge chips, light rubs, and short edge tears. There are a few old tape repairs, though unobtrusive. Overall sound and vibrant example in the rare dust jacket.
Item #1902
Price: $750