I ME MINE

Guildford (U.K.) : Genesis Publications, 1980. Octavo, original publisher’s brown half-leather with gilt-decorated guitar in black leather inlay to upper board, facsimile signature in gilt to lower board, ruled in gilt, spine in compartments with raised bands, contrasting black calf title-piece lettered in gilt, ruled in gilt and with gilt decorated religious symbols; the brown variant binding by the noted firm of Zaehnsdorf of London (one of a number issued by the publisher); all edges gilt, facsimile musical scores to endpapers, pp. 398; (3), numerous plates, photographs, reproductions of song lyrics and musical scores, tipped-in plates with tissue guards; a very fine copy housed in the original publisher’s buckram slipcase with paper title-label (a few very small marks), and the original cardboard mailing carton. Printed in an edition of 2000 copies signed by George Harrison, this is copy number 1611. A fine example, near-mint, housed in the original mailing carton since publication.

‘The first of many collaborations with George Harrison, this was the book that changed our direction from publishing voyages of exploration to rock ’n’ roll. Every one was a highly pleasurable experience. George was a wonderful human being and a great friend to Genesis Publications, and is missed enormously.

I ME MINE was published in 1980, the culmination of several years work. It contains 83 of George’s song lyrics printed in superb facsimile with the story behind each one in the composer’s words. Printed in 28 special colours by Kingprint of Richmond, sadly no longer in business. George visited Kingprint to view the first sheets coming off the press. Muffled screams could be heard from the bindery girls as his Porsche drew into the carpark. One of the workers had a small kestrel which perched calmly on George’s outstretched hand for several minutes as he stood beside the printing press.’ – the publisher.