The Carnivorous Lamb
Boston: David R. Godine, Publisher, 1984. 1st US Edition. Octavo, publisher’s brown cloth over ivory paper-covered boards, spine gilt, upper board stamped in burgundy, speckled endpapers, original illustrated dust jacket.
"Whether you come as a lover or an executioner, I am ready to receive you." First US edition of queer writer, dramatist, and anarchist Agustín Gómez-Arcos’s debut novel, featuring a dust jacket illustration by American artist Mel Odom. An openly gay author, Gómez-Arcos left his native Spain in the late 1960s for France to escape censorship, where he remained for the remainder of his life. An allegory of Franco’s regime, the coming-of-age narrative centers on a young man named Ignacio–who describes himself as a "carnivorous lamb"–as he navigates the complexities of family life, including an inchoate sexual relationship with his brother Antonio. Best known for his homoerotic and ethereal Art Deco inspired creations, illustrator Mel Odom came to fame in the 70s and 80s for his work in magazines such as Blueboy, Viva, Playboy, Rolling Stone, and Omni, along with his book covers. Translated from the original French by William Rodarmor. Stated first edition to copyright page. Originally published in France in 1975. Fine in unclipped dust jacket. Item #13152
$85.00