The points of issue
Pocket Poets Series No. 14, printed wrappers. First printing identified by the absence of later-printing notice on the copyright page; original price on rear cover.
Is this the true first?
City Lights US (1961) is the true first; no separate UK first of equal standing. Signed copies are collectible.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Not a book-club title. Later printings noted on the copyright page; confirm Pocket Poets No. 14 and first-printing copyright page.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Kaddish and Other Poems 1958–1960 a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Pocket Poets Series No. 14, printed wrappers. First printing identified by the absence of later-printing notice on the copyright page; original price on rear cover.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. City Lights US (1961) is the true first; no separate UK first of equal standing. Signed copies are collectible.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Not a book-club title. Later printings noted on the copyright page; confirm Pocket Poets No. 14 and first-printing copyright page.
I have a first edition of Kaddish and Other Poems 1958–1960 — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.