OURIKA - INSCRIBED TO KAREL REISZ
Austin: W. Thomas Taylor, 1977. First Edition of this translation. Handsome edition of Fowles's translation of Claire de Durfort's 1824 novel. In his introduction, Fowles explains how the acquisition and reading of a badly foxed copy in a London bookshop inspired his third novel, The French Lieutenant's Woman (1969). The novel was adapted for film by playwright Harold Pinter, directed by Karel Reisz, and released to great fanfare, including five Academy Award nominations and a Golden Globe Award for Meryl Streep. A lengthy, significant inscription, and uncommon thus. Item #5662
One of 500 copies. Quarto (25.75cm); original quarter blue crushed morocco and paste paper boards, with titles stamped in gilt on spine; [ii],[4],5-65,[5]pp. Inscribed by Fowles to Czech-born British filmmaker Karel Reisz (1926-2002) on half-title page: "Dear Karel, I thought this little source for the FLW might amuse you – and it comes with all my thanks for your patience, past and present, over the filming. I know it could not be in better or more understanding hands. John / Lyme, 14 June 1980." Gentle sunning to spine, pinpoint wear to corners; very Near Fine.
Price: $1,850.00