Stephen Pell — Hãâ©Lãâ¨Ne and Other War Verses
New York, De Vinne Press, 1920. First edition. Cloth. The signed first edition of Stephen Pell's observant poetic anthology on his service in France during the First World War, with charming illustrations. The Signed first edition of the war poem anthology Hélène and Other Verses, written by American poet and First World War veteran Stephen Pell. Privately published in 1920, two years following the First World War. Printed by De Vine Press.In the publisher's original blue-grey cloth, with the author's signed inscription to the front free end paper. Contains a colour frontispiece of Hélène, and three other charming illustrated plates. An illustrated plate appears to be missing between leaves pp.22-23. Collated complete.Having served in France during the First World War, Pell's anthology is inspired by his experiences and observations as a soldier. Written in the affection memory of his friend and comrade Stewart Flagg, as well as Nora Saltonstall, both were awarded the Croix de Guerre. Compared to other war anthologies, there is an emphasised connection with France, with poems like The Tricolor and The Cathedral of Soissons. In the publisher's original blue-grey cloth. Externally, very smart, with minimal marks and signs of shelf wear. Slight fading to the spine. End papers are bright and clean, with very minor marking to the rear paste down. The poet's signed inscription to the front free end paper. Internally, generally firmly bound, with leaf pp.78 having split and is nearly loose. A plate is missing between pp.22-23. Pages are bright and clean, with very slight small marking to top of title leaf. Very Good . Ill.: Unknown. Very Good .
