First edition of Whitman's important collection of American Civil War poems. Also Whitman's first book of poems not entitled "Leaves of Grass." While much of the poetry in "Leaves" is joyful, "Drum-Taps" is a sombre portrayal of a broken nation. While Whitman intended to publish the book as soon as possible during the final stage of the war, a paper shortage threatened his plan. The result was a book printed on larger paper than intended with the poems squeezed together. The planned 120 page volume was condensed into 72 pages. This is the preferred second issue with the first appearance of the "Sequel." As copies of the first section were being printed in April 1865, President Lincoln was assassinated. Rather than continue with the printing, Whitman halted the process, fearing that his book was unfinished without recognition of Lincoln's death. Over the next few months, Whitman hurriedly wrote an additional 18 poems, including his famous ones honoring Lincoln, such as "Oh, Captain! My Captain!" Still wishing to economize, Whitman chose to sew together the original "Drum-Taps" with the "Sequel." The second title's peculiar font made of broken limbs and branches is said to allude to a fragmented nation attempting to regrow. Even his publication date is symbolically fragmented. Myerson A 3.I.a2.
