Bright Angel and Other Poems

A handsome first edition of Bright Angel and Other Poems by Archibald Rutledge, Poet Laureate of South Carolina, presented here in its original dust jacket and signed by the author on the title page. Rutledge—often regarded as one of the defining literary voices of the American South in the mid-20th century—brings together in this volume a collection of poems reflecting his deep connection to Southern landscape, tradition, and spiritual life. His work, rooted in both classical form and regional identity, earned wide contemporary praise, as reflected on the original publisher’s review panel. This copy carries two layers of provenance: A clean author signature (“Archibald Rutledge”) on the title page A separate contemporary gift inscription dated Christmas 1955, suggesting the book was presented shortly after publication Such dual-marked copies offer a compelling glimpse into the book’s early life—both as a signed literary work and as a personal object exchanged within its original cultural moment. The original dust jacket, priced at $2.00, remains present and complete, an increasingly uncommon survival for this title. An attractive and display-worthy example of Southern literary history, with added interest for collectors of signed regional poetry and Poet Laureate material. 📖 Condition Book: Very Good Clean interior Light, even toning typical of age Binding tight and square Signature clear and unaffected Dust Jacket: Good+ Edge wear and small chips, particularly at corners and head of spine Light soiling and handling wear Price ($2.00) intact on flap Presents well in protective cover.…