The American Language. A Preliminary Inquiry into the Development of English in the United States.

SIGNED first edition/first printing with the exceedingly scarce complete dust jacket, accompanied by a letter discussing language and deplorable conditions in Baltimore signed and dated by Mencken. "The American of today is much more honestly English, in any sense that Shakespeare would have understood, than the so-called standard English of England." Copy #481 of only 1500 printed copies, this American declaration of linguistic independence OF Mencken s most enduring work --the only signed copy we've ever seen -- marked a crucial new chapter in American prose. The publication of The American Language summoned the emergence of American lexicography as a distinct field. Mencken's work inspired subsequent dictionaries, such as the Dictionary of American English by the American Dialect Society. These dictionaries focused on documenting the unique vocabulary and expressions of uniquely American English, thus cementing The American Language as a pioneering work in the study of American linguistics. Royal 8vo. Original dark blue cloth, gilt lettered spine, blue top edge; original printed dust jacket (spine sunned, some moderate edgewear); encased in a folding chemise and morocco backed slipcase. SIGNED FIRST EDITION, LIMITED ISSUE, number 1481 of 1500 copies. PRESENTATION COPY, INSCRIBED BY MENCKEN. IN THE RARE DUST JACKET, especially rare in this condition. Book #v2451. $5800. We specialize in Rare Ayn Rand, history, and science.".…