May 2015 Auction Ends Thursday, May 28th, 5pm Pacific

William S. Burroughs Signed First American Edition of ''Naked Lunch''

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/28/2015

First American edition of William S. Burroughs' groundbreaking masterpiece ''Naked Lunch'', signed by the author. Published by Grove Press: New York: 1962, copy is the first American edition, since the book was banned by U.S. obscenity laws and was only circulated throughout Europe and in underground circles upon its original publication in 1959. Burroughs signs ''For Douglas / William Burroughs'' to top of title page. Book contains original black and yellow dustjacket, with comments from Burroughs, Norman Mailer, Robert Lowell, E.S. Seldon and Jack Kerouac to verso. Runs 255pp., clothed in black boards with title lettering to spine. Also includes sealed 50th anniversary copy of the novel, published by Grove Press: New York: 2009. First edition measures 5.75'' x 8.25''. Chipping to dustjacket at edges; very good condition. Discreet embossed seal from previous owner on front free endpaper; book is near fine.