THE POEMS (1961-2020)

First edition, first printing. Hardcover issue. Publisher's original black cloth with titles in gilt to the spine, in the Charles Tyrrell illustrated dustwrapper. A very near fine copy, the binding firm, the spine a touch rolled, the cloth bright and fresh. The contents are clean throughout, and without inscriptions or stamps. Complete with fine original dustwrapper that is without fading, loss, or tears. A comprehensive collection of the widely-celebrated poet's body of work.

The first edition was published in simultaneous paperback and hardback editions, on 23 September 2021. Widely regarded as one of the most talented and innovative Irish poets of the late 20th century, Derek Mahon was best known for illuminating the ordinary aspects of daily life through his skillfully crafted verse. A recipient of numerous literary and poetry prizes in his lifetime, Mahon's poetry has been critically compared to that of Auden, MacNeice, and Beckett. He passed away peacefully at age 78 in County Cork, Ireland in 2020 (Poetry Foundation, 2025).