This listing is for a rare First Edition of "Rhymes of a Red Cross Man" by the poet Robert W. Service, published by Barse & Hopkins in 1916. This collection of poems holds a deep connection to World War I and is dedicated by Service to the memory of his brother, Lieutenant Albert Service, who was killed in action in France in August 1916. The book's green cloth binding with decorative gilt stamping makes it a unique and visually appealing piece of literary and military history.
A Synopsis of the Book
"Rhymes of a Red Cross Man" is a collection of poems that vividly portrays the experiences and emotions of those involved in World War I, particularly from the perspective of a Red Cross volunteer. Service's poems capture the harsh realities of trench warfare, the courage and camaraderie of soldiers, and the suffering and sacrifice endured during the conflict. The collection is characterized by its raw energy, its use of colloquial language, and its ability to convey the intense emotions of the war, offering a moving glimpse into the human cost of the conflict.
About the Author
Robert W. Service was a British-Canadian poet and writer, known as the "Bard of the Yukon" for his popular poems that depicted the rugged life and adventures of the Klondike Gold Rush. His achievements include writing ballads and narrative poems that captured the spirit of the Canadian North, characterized by their strong rhythms and vivid imagery. With "Rhymes of a Red Cross Man," Service turned his poetic eye to the Great War, bringing his characteristic energy and richness to the portrayal of wartime experiences. His ability to connect with a wide audience through his emotionally charged poetry solidified his place as a popular and influential voice in the early 20th century.
Historical Context
Published in 1916, this book was written during the height of the First World War, a year that saw some of the conflict's most brutal battles, including the Battle of the Somme. The book's dedication to Service's brother, who was killed in action in August 1916, provides a direct and deeply personal link to the events of the war. It serves as a historical document that conveys not only the collective spirit of those involved in the war effort but also the individual loss and grief experienced during this time.
Why This Book Is Valuable
This 1916 First Edition of "Rhymes of a Red Cross Man" is a valuable and collectible item for enthusiasts of poetry, military history, and collectors of World War I-era materials. Its status as a First Edition by a well-known author is a primary point of value. The direct dedication to the author's brother, who died in the war, adds an immense layer of personal and historical significance, making this a highly sought-after copy. The provenance is further enhanced by a prior owner's ex-libris sticker and handwritten signature, which provides a unique history for this specific volume. For those who study the Great War, this book offers a tangible connection to a celebrated voice of the era.
Condition
This book is a used hardcover edition with a green cloth binding and decorative gilt stamping on the spine and front board. The binding shows visible wear consistent with its age, including rubbing, scuffing, and minor discoloration. The gilt stamping shows some fading but remains largely discernible. The pages are age-toned but remain clear and legible. A prior owner's ex-libris sticker for "DORIS MARIE CRESSLER" is present on the inside of the front cover, with a handwritten signature and some blue ink scribbling. The interior binding also shows some wear, as depicted in the photographs. Please review all photos carefully for details.
Supporting Information
Author: Robert W. Service
Publication Date: 1916
Edition: First Edition, First Printing
Publisher: Barse & Hopkins
Place of Publication: New York
Illustrator(s): None
Origin: United States
Book Cover Type: Hardcover, with decorative gilt stamping.
