The points of issue
Pocket Poets Series No. 1 — the inaugural volume of the series, predating Howl (No. 4). Printed wrappers in glassine; original price on rear cover. First printing lacks any later-printing statement.
Is this the true first?
City Lights US (1955) is the true first and the first book City Lights published. As Pocket Poets No. 1 it is a foundational Beat-era imprint. Later (1995) expanded editions are 'first thus.'
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Not a book club. Confirm Pocket Poets No. 1 and a first-printing copyright page; later printings are noted. Glassine wrapper and clean wrappers raise value.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Pictures of the Gone World a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Pocket Poets Series No. 1 — the inaugural volume of the series, predating Howl (No. 4). Printed wrappers in glassine; original price on rear cover. First printing lacks any 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. City Lights US (1955) is the true first and the first book City Lights published. As Pocket Poets No. 1 it is a foundational Beat-era imprint. Later (1995) expanded editions are 'first thus.'
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Not a book club. Confirm Pocket Poets No. 1 and a first-printing copyright page; later printings are noted. Glassine wrapper and clean wrappers raise value.
I have a first edition of Pictures of the Gone World — 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.