Huncke's Journal

by Herbert Huncke

drawings by Erin Matson 

First edition.  New York:  The Poets Press, 1965 

Softback is overall in VERY GOOD- condition.

• Blue wraps have typeset title and ornament. 
• Wraps show some wear, exposure, smudges, dings, creasing, edgewear.  Corners are softened.  See photos. 
• Spine with two-staple binding is faded with bumped ends.
• Binding is secure, with some oxidation to staples. 
• Illustrations are bright and clear. 
• Interior is gently age-toned, exhibits some smudges, some creasing.  
• Inside pages are free of writing and intentional marks.
• PS2025.0626

78 pages. 7.25 x 9.25 inches

A Very Good- copy of this first book by Herbert Huncke (1915-1996), with illustrations by Erin Matson, published by Diane DiPrima at The Poets Press in New York City.  Blue wraps are faded with exposure, interior a little age toned.  Nine-line prefatory comment by Allen Ginsberg follows the title page. 

Herbert Huncke lived the life that he wrote about and which came to be associated with the Beats.  Most likely, he coined the term.  Huncke used the word "Beat" to describe someone living with no money and few prospects.  "Beat to my socks," he said.  Huncke coined the phrase in a conversation with Jack Kerouac, who was interested in how their generation would be remembered.  "I'm beat," was Huncke's reply, meaning tired and beat to his socks.  Kerouac went on to use the term to describe an entire generation.

Please see photos. More photos available upon request.

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