Epos: A Quarterly of Poetry – Poems and Drawings by Charles Bukowski (1962) – Signed with Original Drawing!

Description

In 1962, Charles Bukowski was still several years away from the mainstream literary fame that Post Office would bring him, but his legend was already forming in the small press world. Living in Los Angeles and working menial jobs while writing prolifically, Bukowski was carving out a reputation as a raw, uncompromising voice in American poetry. This special “extra issue” of Epos—his scarce second book—collected his early poems and drawings, offering a concentrated glimpse at a writer who was then only beginning to be recognized beyond the mimeograph scene.

Fast-forward to 1969: his star was on the rise, thanks to a growing body of small press books, his Notes of a Dirty Old Man column, and his magnetic live readings. It was in this year he inscribed this copy, adding an exuberant full-page drawing on the inside front cover—two of his characteristic dog figures, one of them speaking, “OOOH!”—along with a warm, bold inscription “early poems / early screams” dated 8-12-69. Scarce in any state, this title becomes extraordinary with such a vivid example of Bukowski’s artwork and personality.

A rare opportunity to own Bukowski’s second book, signed and illustrated during a pivotal moment in his career. Essential for serious Bukowski collectors and small press aficionados alike.