First Edition Copy of Moby-Dick and Early Work by John Steinbeck Highlight Literature Sale

Herman Melville’s tale of revenge on the high seas, Moby-Dick; or The Whale, was not an instant success. Melville took a year longer to write it than expected, and it arrived with mixed reviews, including particularly unfavorable ones from America. A copy of the first American edition of Melville’s Moby-Dick highlights the upcoming Literature From a Private New Orleans Collection sale, presented by Hindman. Published in 1851, the American edition had over 35 passages not offered in the British edition. This includes the epilogue that explains Ishmael survived the Pequod’s sinking.

From the 20th century, bidders will find several collections of Beat Generation books. That includes a bundle of works by Lawrence Ferlinghetti, the late owner of City Lights. Those interested in learning more about Lawrence Ferlinghetti‘s legacy and his books on offer can read Auction Daily’s extended coverage. Also available is a first edition copy of John Steinbeck’s The Pastures of Heaven. The book is a collection of interconnected short stories revolving around a small California community. Pastures was an early John Steinbeck work, and even the author was surprised to see this copy when he autographed it for a friend in 1932. “Where’d you get hold of this,” Steinbeck’s note begins. Register to bid and view each of the lots on Bidsquare.