The points of issue
First book edition of Krapp's Last Tape (with Embers), Faber and Faber, London, 1959 (Federman and Fletcher 37.1). Faber copyright page states 'First published in mcmlix' with no later impressions listed. The play first appeared in periodical form in Evergreen Review 2.5, Summer 1958.
Is this the true first?
First periodical appearance was Evergreen Review (Summer 1958). First book edition was Faber 1959 (UK). The US first book appearance came in Grove's 'Krapp's Last Tape and Other Dramatic Pieces,' 1960 — a separate first thus. Faber 1959 is the earliest stand-alone book.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Identify the Faber first by 'First published in mcmlix' with no further impression statement; later Faber impressions add impression lines. No book-club edition.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Krapp's Last Tape and Embers a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First book edition of Krapp's Last Tape (with Embers), Faber and Faber, London, 1959 (Federman and Fletcher 37.1). Faber copyright page states 'First published in mcmlix' with no later impressions listed. The play first appeared in periodical form in Evergreen Review 2.5, Summer 1958.
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. First periodical appearance was Evergreen Review (Summer 1958). First book edition was Faber 1959 (UK). The US first book appearance came in Grove's 'Krapp's Last Tape and Other Dramatic Pieces,' 1960 — a separate first thus. Faber 1959 is the earliest stand-alone book.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Identify the Faber first by 'First published in mcmlix' with no further impression statement; later Faber impressions add impression lines. No book-club edition.
I have a first edition of Krapp's Last Tape and Embers — 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.