The points of issue
Moore's first authorized American book, gathering the 1921 poems plus roughly thirty additional pieces. First printing: Dial Press, 1924, a small edition; carries no later-printing statement.
Is this the true first?
The Egoist Press 'Poems' (London, 1921) is Moore's true first book chronologically, arranged without her consent by H.D. and Bryher; 'Observations' (Dial, 1924) is her first authorized book. Catalogue both honestly.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book club. The 1925 second edition of Observations is revised, distinguished by its printing statement and changes to the contents.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Observations a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Moore's first authorized American book, gathering the 1921 poems plus roughly thirty additional pieces. First printing: Dial Press, 1924, a small edition; carries no later-printing statement.
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. The Egoist Press 'Poems' (London, 1921) is Moore's true first book chronologically, arranged without her consent by H.D. and Bryher; 'Observations' (Dial, 1924) is her first authorized book. Catalogue both honestly.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book club. The 1925 second edition of Observations is revised, distinguished by its printing statement and changes to the contents.
I have a first edition of Observations — 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.