Swinging Syllables: Beatnik Dictionary.
Memphis: Kimbrough Publishing 1959.
Item #SKB-13993
32mo. Pamphlet. First edition. The first full-length beatnik dictionary solely devoted to beatnik, drug, and hipster lingo. Within a year of publication this book was pirated twice, first as "Beatnik Dictionary," and then a revised and expanded edition was issued under the title "Beat Talk." Illustrated with charming cartoon drawings of beatnik scenes. Advertised in popular magazines of the period and only available by mail order. The ad in Playboy reads: "Swinging Syllables The Official Handbook For Everyone In Orbit. Packed with words and phrases straight from infinity. Send One Skin (1.00)." Touch of wear to spine extremities, cover bright and presents beautifully, slight soiling to white back cover, very good plus or better. A rare and important book in the lineage of hip slang, the beatnik-era equivalent of Cab Calloway's landmark "Hepster's Dictionary" of the '30s.
Price: $600.00