Moby Dick or The Whale
 
The intricate and dramatic tale is based on a considerable amount of Melville’s research. The author spent a substantial amount of time on the whaling vessel, Acushnet, and acquired first-hand whaling experience on the ship. The historical ship, Essex, that was attacked by a sperm whale in 1820, was a massive inspiration for much of Melville’s plot. Even the memorable name of the monstrous whale is derived from a historically aggressive whale off the coast of Chile named Mocha Dick. While well-researched, the novel was still not ready to publish until after Melville met Nathaniel Hawthorne, to whom he dedicated the book. The other author inspired Melville to rewrite his book, making the plot significantly more complex.
 
Features;
The 100 Greatest Books Ever Written.
Collectors Edition
Easton Press, 1977
Illustration by Boardman Robinson
Accented in 22kt gold.
Printed on archival paper.
Bound in original full black leather with raised bands and gilt titles on the spine, green silk endpaper, and gilt edges. 
10 3/4" H x 6 3/8" W