Description
For sale: a Rare and Exceptional first edition, early printing paperback copy of The Coral Sea by Patti Smith. First Edition stated, 2012 W. W. Norton. First Printing with a complete number line 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 and a $14.95 rear cover price. Seven black-and-white photographs.
The exterior of this paperback edition is in Near Fine condition, with clean, bright covers with no creases, clean page blocks, mild surface wear, strong title on a square spine, a tight binding with no spine cracks, lightly rubbed spine ends, mild edge wear and lightly rounded corners. The interior of the book is also in Very Good condition with an erased price on the first free end paper. No other marks, inscriptions, or signs of ownership inside. The end papers and inside covers are are clean and lightly toned, making it an excellent addition to any collection.
Through the linked pieces of The Coral Sea, Patti Smith honors her comrade-in-arms Robert Mapplethorpe (1946-1989). She tells the story of a man on an ocean journey to see the Southern Cross, who is reflecting on his life and fighting the illness that is consuming him. Metaphoric and dreamy, this tale of transformation arises from Smith’s knowledge of Mapplethorpe from a young man to a mature artist; his close relationship with patron and friend, Sam Wagstaff; his years surviving AIDS; and his ascent into death.
