Description
A first edition, first printing of A Military Orchid by Jocelyn Brooke, published by The Bodley Head, London in 1948. A near fine book inscribed by the author in blue ink to the front free end paper, bookplate of collector Peter Apap Bologna to front paste down, signature of former owner Nan Wilson in blue ink to the front free end paper, chapter heading illustrations in black and white by Stephen Bone, boards bound in original publishers olive green cloth with tarnished gilt titling to the spine, some rubbing to extremities and toning to the text block. In a near fine unclipped wrapper with chipping to the the spine tips and knuckles of front and rear flap folds, the rear panel with light shelf wear.
The Military Orchid by Jocelyn Brooke is a semi-autobiographical novel blending memoir, botany and wartime reflection. Centred on the narrator’s obsessive search for the rare military orchid, it explores themes of desire, futility and the beauty of impermanence. Brooke weaves childhood memories, military service and natural history into a witty, melancholy meditation on life’s fleeting passions. Combining precise botanical detail with personal confession, the book inaugurates his celebrated Orchid Trilogy and showcases his unique hybrid style.
