Burl Ives' Tales of America - INSCRIBED Copy
Cleveland and New York: The World Publishing Company, (1954). First Edition. Hardcover with Dust Jacket. 8vo. Pp. xiii, [2], 3-305. Frontis. and illustrations in black-and-white by Helen Borten. Cream half-cloth over red paper-covered boards, blindstamped and with illustration in black on front board and spine, gilt lettering on spine. Through a production error, the rear endpapers are lacking; the last page is the rear pastedown. Lower edges of boards worn; foxing to endpapers. In the dust jacket that shows light wear at head and tail of spine, but is otherwise bright with price of $3.95 intact on front flap. Inscribed by Ives on the front free endpaper, dated 1955. Good+ / Very Good. Item #6681
As a troubadour folklorist, Ives illuminated the rich fabric of American history through song. His support of left-leaning political causes begat attention of the House of UnAmerican Activities, and the specious publications Red Channels outed him as a commie sympathizer, effectively blacklisting him from radio and Hollywood. Ives then sang in a fresh octave when he "named names" in HUAC hearings, and published this title of Americana, possibly as a patriotic PR effort. A faustian bargain? His subsequent career reached new heights, despite the discredit bestowed by fellow folkies, notably Pete Seeger. Dust jacket is now preserved in a clear, removable archival sleeve.
Price: $75.00