SIGNED - The Lost Weekend by Charles Jackson - 2nd Printing - ODJ
The Lost Weekend by Charles R. Jackson is a groundbreaking and harrowing portrayal of addiction, mental turmoil, and the depths of human suffering. First published in 1944, this seminal novel centers on Don Birnam, a talented writer who is caught in the grip of alcoholism. The book was lauded for its raw, unflinching realism and its exploration of addiction, which mirrored Jackson’s own struggles with alcoholism. The Lost Weekend was praised for its stark depiction of a man’s downward spiral, making it one of the most significant works of American literature on the subject of addiction.
Jackson’s semi-autobiographical novel brought to light the pervasive nature of alcoholism during a time when it was not widely discussed. The book’s critical acclaim helped raise awareness of the condition, and it was later adapted into a successful film that won multiple Academy Awards. This work remains a powerful narrative about the destructive forces of addiction, self-doubt, and the quest for redemption.
Key Features:
• Author’s Inscription and Signature: A rare, signed and inscribed copy, inscribed by Charles Jackson on the first page: “Charles Jackson.” This personal touch adds significant value and makes this copy particularly collectible.
• Condition: The book is in good condition, with some wear to the cover and boards and fading to the spine. The pages are clean and free from markings, with the exception of the author’s signature.
• Original Dust Jacket: The book includes the original dust jacket, which shows signs of wear but still retains its classic design.
• Second Large Printing: This edition, a second large printing, is a rare and important version of the novel, making it a desirable find for collectors.
Condition Details:
• Cover and Boards: Moderate wear visible on the cover and boards, with some fading to the spine.
• Pages: Clean pages with no writing or markings, except for the author’s inscription on the first page.
• Dust Jacket: The dust jacket has experienced some wear, with chipping and small tears along the edges but remains intact. It still holds its original charm and appeal.
• Binding: The binding is secure, though there is some wear consistent with age and handling.
About the Author:
Charles R. Jackson (1903–1968) was an American author best known for his novel The Lost Weekend, which draws heavily from his personal experiences with alcoholism. His talent for capturing the psychological depth and darkness of addiction led him to be regarded as a key figure in postwar American literature. Despite his early success with The Lost Weekend, Jackson struggled with his own demons throughout his life, and his career never fully realized its potential. His work remains notable for its stark realism and its focus on mental health and addiction.
This signed and inscribed copy of The Lost Weekend is an exceptional collectible, perfect for both fans of classic American literature and collectors of rare books. The combination of the author’s signature, the book’s historical significance, and its portrayal of addiction make it a must-have for anyone interested in 20th-century American novels.
