“A TALE THAT IS RHYTHMED WITH THE DANCE OF SUNBEAMS, AND SET TO THE MUSIC OF THRUSHES AND BROOKS”

HOLMES, Daniel Henry. Under a Fool’s Cap: Songs. Portland, Maine: Thomas B. Mosher, 1911. Small, slim octavo, contemporary full olive morocco gilt, raised bands, all edges gilt. $250.

Second edition of Holmes’ first book of poetry, one of only 900 copies printed on Van Gelder handmade paper, handsomely bound.

Inspired by traditional songs and nursery rhymes such as “Old King Cole” and “Humpty-Dumpty,” the charming poems Holmes includes here in his first book are meant to expand upon and add texture to the original themes from which they were developed. Holmes went on to write both poetry and music, complementary interests that are both evident in this work. The first edition was published in 1910.

Binding mostly toned to brown. A handsome copy in fine condition.