Nothing Personal

New York: Dell, 1965. First paperback edition of Richard Avedon’s second photobook, with text by James Baldwin, originally issued in hardcover the previous year. Former high school classmates in the Bronx, Avedon and Baldwin reconnected for this project documenting life in the United States in the wake of John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Avedon’s photographs feature the most famous Americans (Dwight Eisenhower, Malcolm X, Marilyn Monroe) alongside the most anonymous (mental patients, children), while Baldwin’s essay takes the nation to task: “Everyone is rushing, God knows where, and everyone is looking for God knows what -- but it is clear that no one is happy here, and that something has been lost.” The book ends on a redemptive note, with Avedon’s images of young families and Baldwin’s call for community: “I have always felt that a human being could only be saved by another human being. I am aware that we do not save each other very often. But I am also aware that we save each other some of the time.” A near-fine copy, from the library of award-winning American photojournalist Peter Turnley. Single volume, measuring 9.25 x 7 inches: [96]. Original wrappers printed in black and silver, black-and-white photographs throughout text. Ownership signature of Peter Turnley to first page. Lightest shelfwear. (Inventory #: 1003941)