The Curious Republic of Gondour – Mark Twain – 1919 | First Issue, Political Satire

The Curious Republic of Gondour by Mark Twain is a collection of short stories and sketches that was collected and published posthumously in 1919. This first edition, first printing was issued by Boni & Liveright and contains some of Twain’s more eccentric and whimsical works. In these sketches, Twain explores the absurdities of politics and social hierarchy with his signature, sarcastic wit. The title piece satirizes the electoral process, proposing a system where suffrage is universal, but individuals can earn additional votes based on their wealth and education. This edition occupies a small yet intriguing place within the broader Twain bibliography.

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Curious Republic of Gondour, and Other Whimsical Sketches
• Author: Samuel Clemens [Mark Twain]
• Publisher: New York : Boni and Liveright
• Edition: First edition, First Issue, 1919
  • 1919 dating on both title page and copyright
  • Issued by Boni and Liveright
  • No mention of other editions or printings
• Binding: Cloth spine with hardcover boards
• Format: Duodecimo (12mo), single volume
• Size: ~ 7.5in x 4.75in (19cm x 12cm)
• Collation: vii, [3], 140
• Contents Include:
  • The Curious Republic of Gondour
  • About Smells
  • The “Tournament” in A.D. 1870
  • Curious Relic for Sale
  • A Royal Compliment
  • Our Precious Lunatic
  • The Wild Man Interviewed
• Reference(s): BAL 3527

Condition:

Very Good condition. The binding shows moderate edgewear and soiling along the spine, but it is securely attached with intact hinges. The text block remains tight and secure. The pages are clean and complete with no missing pages or major flaws. Very mildly age-toned, with some browning to the endpapers. No dust jacket is present.

Why Collect This?

• First edition, first issue with correct 1919 date and imprint
• Satirical content with political themes
• Appealing to Twain collectors and scholars of American satire

Item Number: #31215