Water Row Press
Is pleased to announce
publication of a new edition of
The Circus of the Sun
By Robert Lax
Illustrated by Henry Denander
A monumental milestone in American poetry and originally published in 1959, "The Circus of the Sun" is a majestic poetry cycle by American poet Robert Lax. It consists of a cycle of 31 short poems that tell the story of a traveling circus.
The poem follows a day in the life of a circus as they arrive in a new town, set up, rehearse, perform and take down the circus.
It is arranged according to the phases of the day (morning, afternoon, evening, the midway, and night) which deliberately align with the canonical hours and the title alludes to the song written by Francis of Assisi, "Canticle of the Sun."
Lax used his own experience traveling with the Cristiani
Brothers Circus, where he would sometimes perform as a clown as inspiration for the poem.
In writing about the circus Lax is
able to write about theological ideas of creation and Christian allegory.
Widely considered his best poem, The Circus of the Sun marks the conclusion of the early, lyrical phase of Lax's career before he started writing experimental, minimalist poetry.
Beautifully designed and printed by Markus Hartel at Raghaus Studios in Newburgh, New York and handbound by Bill Roberts
at Bottle of Smoke Press, this new edition of The Circus of the Sun is masterfully illustrated by Swedish artist, Henry Denander.
Limited to an edition of 150 handbound hardcover copies in total,
the book measures 9” x 12” - 60 pages - Illustrated in color. The type was set in Mrs. Eaves OT. Printed on Mohawk Via Vellum paper.
About The Author:
“Robert Lax (1915-2000) was a poet with a singular vision and style whose quest to live an authentic life as both an artist and a spiritual seeker inspired Thomas Merton, Jack Kerouac, William Maxwell and countless others.
Known in the U.S. primarily as Merton’s best friend and in Europe as a daringly original avant-garde poet, Lax lived a life of simplicity, humility and grace
that continues to encourage and motivate readers and
followers.” - robertlax.com
About The Illustrator:
Henry Denander (b. 1952) lives in Stockholm, Sweden and on the isle of Hydra, Greece. He is also a poet having been published throughout the world. Visit henrydenander.com for more about
this talented poet and artist.
● 100 numbered copies are quarter-bound in white cloth.
Letterpress printed paper over boards. Signed by the artist.
The copy number you receive is our choice.
Satisfaction Guaranteed!