Pynchon, Thomas. V. London: Jonathan Cape, 1963. First UK edition of the author’s groundbreaking debut novel. Octavo (20 x 13.5 cm). Publisher’s original black cloth, spine lettered in silver, red topstain. In the original illustrated dust jacket, priced 25s net.
Book itself is in near fine condition with only slight shelf wear on the corners of the spine, inside is clean, tightly bound. The original dust jacket is in good condition with some soiling on the top, as pictured and some discoloration and creases. Slightly clipped on the corners but the price remains intact.
A sharp and ambitious work that announced the arrival of one of America’s most enigmatic literary talents, V. established Pynchon’s voice as both postmodern trickster and chronicler of entropy, paranoia, and cultural decay. First published in the U.S. earlier the same year, the UK edition is now increasingly scarce, especially in collectible condition. First UK edition of the author’s first novel, incorporating changes Pynchon made to the book after its first publication in the US.
A cornerstone of postmodern literature and an essential acquisition for any serious Pynchon collection.
