How to identify a first printing
- Jonathan Greene's literary press: poetry-focused; limited issues identified by the colophon limitation and signed/numbered states alongside trade paperbound issues.
- First printing: no later-printing statement present; a signed/numbered hardbound state is distinguished from the simultaneous wrappered trade state by binding and a numbered colophon.
- Identify by Gnomon's Kentucky/Appalachian and small-press literary list and by Greene's book design.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1965 by Jonathan Greene; originally in Lexington, later Frankfort, Kentucky. More a literary small press than a deluxe fine press, it issues signed/limited states of poetry and literary titles.
- Published authors include Wendell Berry, Robert Duncan, Jonathan Williams, James Still, and Gurney Norman.
- Distinguish the signed/limited issue from the ordinary trade issue; the premium attaches only to the limited state.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Gnomon Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Jonathan Greene's literary press: poetry-focused; limited issues identified by the colophon limitation and signed/numbered states alongside trade paperbound issues. First printing: no later-printing statement present; a signed/numbered hardbound state is distinguished from the simultaneous wrappered trade state by binding and a numbered colophon.
Does Gnomon Press use a number line?
First printing: no later-printing statement present; a signed/numbered hardbound state is distinguished from the simultaneous wrappered trade state by binding and a numbered colophon.
Is a book-club edition a Gnomon Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1965 by Jonathan Greene; originally in Lexington, later Frankfort, Kentucky. More a literary small press than a deluxe fine press, it issues signed/limited states of poetry and literary titles.
What era does this cover?
This covers Gnomon Press (1965-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.