DEATH HAS LOST ITS CHARM FOR ME - INSCRIBED TO WILLIAM SAFIRE, WITH ALS LAID IN

Northridge, CA: Lord John Press, 1987. First Trade Edition. Attractive, fine press printing of Bradbury's poetry. During their decades-long friendship and correspondence, the two men were diligent about inscribing and exchanging books with each other. Safire deeply admired Bradbury's writing, notably reviewing Zen and the Art of Writing: Essays on Creativity for his New York Times column "On Language," and frequently citing Bradbury's work when discussing rules for good writing. First Printing. Small quarto (26cm); gray patterned paper-covered boards, with titles stamped in black on spine; [48]pp; illus. Inscribed by Bradbury to author, journalist, and presidential speechwriter William Safire on the title page: "For Bill Safire - with continued admiration - from Ray Bradbury / 7/27/87." Hint of sunning to spine, touch of wear to headband, else Near Fine. Laid into this copy is a brief ALS to Safire on Bradbury's stationary: "Dear Bill - Much thanks for "Freedom" / Looks great! Enclosed: My latest! Fond wishes - Ray 7/27/87." Together with a 2pp fax, dated 8/26/1991, comprised of an ALS from Bradbury to Safire, and a short piece by Bradbury titled "Where's Lefty?". "Dear Bill: With Soviet events moving swiftly, I thought you should see this piece which I published last February! Best, Ray."