Hanley, James (1897–1985)

A Dream Journey [First American Edition]

New York: Horizon Press, 1976. First Edition, First Printing.

A later novel by James Hanley exploring the interior lives and emotional tensions of ordinary individuals with his characteristic intensity and psychological precision.

First issued in the United States by Horizon Press, the publishing house of Ben Raeburn, placing the work within an important mid-century independent literary tradition. This copy represents a remarkably well-preserved example of the Anglo-Irish writer's mature period.

KEY FEATURES
+++ Physical: Typographic jacket design characteristic of mid-century Horizon Press aesthetic. Produced under the direction of Ben Raeburn, emphasizing clean, literary typography.
+++ Binding: Full green cloth with gilt-stamped spine; sharp and square. +++ Content: A psychological novel focusing on interior reflection and the resilience of the human spirit. 
+++ Imprint: Horizon Press, New York, 1976; first American issue. 
+++ Specs: Octavo; 8 inches tall; [6], 256 pages. 

CONDITION: Fine / Fine.
+++ The Book: The bindings are tight and square, holding the text block firmly. The internal pages are clean and free of markings, showing no signs of the typical toning associated with mid-1970s trade paper. The green cloth is vibrant with no fading or bumping to the extremities.
+++ Dust Jacket: The dust jacket is price-intact and appears as new, with minimal handling wear. It presents exceptionally well and is now preserved in a clear, archival Mylar protective sleeve as per standard.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE —
James Hanley (1897–1985) was an Anglo-Irish novelist whose work was championed by figures like E.M. Forster and John Cowper Powys. Known for his proletarian roots and sea-faring narratives, his later work, such as 'A Dream Journey', shifted toward a more sophisticated, experimental psychological realism.

The Horizon Press imprint adds an additional layer of importance. Founded by Ben Raeburn, the press was a vital independent outlet for serious literature and high-quality design in New York. Hanley's inclusion in the Horizon catalog reinforces the press's commitment to British and Irish voices that challenged the mainstream American market.

SCHOLARLY FEATURES
+++ Literary Influence: Hanley, though often under-recognized by the public, maintains a 'writer's writer' status, admired for his relentless focus on human endurance.
+++ Publishing History: This edition marks the entry of Hanley's late-career work into the American market via Ben Raeburn's Horizon Press, a house noted for its 'gentleman publisher' ethos.
+++ Contextual Analysis: A primary document of the shift in 20th-century literature from external maritime action (Hanley's earlier hallmark) to the claustrophobic, intense interiority of domestic life.

While Hanley’s 'The Furys' or 'Boy' often command more attention for their controversy, 'A Dream Journey' represents the technical peak of his narrative restraint. Copies in this near-pristine state are scarce, as the Horizon trade editions were produced for a discerning but small readership.

SUBJECTS: James Hanley, Modern Literature, Psychological Fiction, Anglo-Irish Literature, Horizon Press, Ben Raeburn, 20th Century Novel, Irish Literature, British Literature, First Edition.

Item #21968
ISBN: 0818006234

Price: $50.00