The Curious Republic of Gondour – Mark Twain – 1919 | First Issue, Political Satire

The Curious Republic of Gondour by Mark Twain is a collection of short stories and sketches that was collected and published posthumously in 1919. This first edition, first printing was issued by Boni & Liveright and contains some of Twain’s more eccentric and whimsical works. In these sketches, Twain explores the absurdities of politics and social hierarchy with his signature, sarcastic wit. The title piece satirizes the electoral process, proposing a system where suffrage is universal, but individuals can earn additional votes based on their wealth and education. This edition occupies a small yet intriguing place within the broader Twain bibliography.   Bibliographic Details Title: The Curious Republic of Gondour, and Other Whimsical Sketches Author: Samuel Clemens [Mark Twain] Publisher: New York : Boni and Liveright Edition: First edition, First Issue, 1919 1919 dating on both title page and copyright Issued by Boni and Liveright No mention of other editions or printings Binding: Cloth spine with hardcover boards Format: Duodecimo (12mo), single volume Size: ~ 7.5in x 4.75in (19cm x 12cm) Collation: vii, [3], 140 Contents Include: The Curious Republic of Gondour About Smells The “Tournament” in A.D. 1870 Curious Relic for Sale A Royal Compliment Our Precious Lunatic The Wild Man Interviewed Provenance: Bookplate of Leon and May Levy on flyleaf Reference(s): BAL 3527   Condition: Very Good condition. The hardcover binding shows mild edgewear and handling soiling, but it is securely attached with intact hinges. The text block remains tight and secure. The pages are clean and complete, mildly age-toned, with some browning to the endpapers and a light water stain to the first 20 pages. No dust jacket is present.   Why Collect This? First edition, first issue with correct 1919 date and imprint Satirical content with political themes Appealing to Twain collectors and scholars of American satire Item Number: #31287 Categories Americana, American History Law & Government Literature Authors Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens) Printing Date 20th Century Language English Binding Hardcover Book Condition Very Good Collation Complete