As William Morris tells us the ideal book is “a book not limited by commercial exigencies of price: we can do what we like with it, according to what its nature, as a book, demands of Art.” We are left to conclude that the ideal book then, does not exist. Most especially, as Morris points out, in a capitalist state. The most important aspect of such a claim is the ultimate goal of artistically realizing a book’s intentions. And to some extent we find a similar viewpoint echoed in Michael Russem’s critique of fine printing. Russem tells us: “the most basic function of a book is to convey the coherent and specific ideas of a writer. A book does not need to be handsome, and it does not need to be well-made.” To me, Barry Moser’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from Book Set 3 embodies this crisis between utilitarianism and aesthetic idealism. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is obviously a classical piece of american literature, often studied and widely read. Having mostly experienced it in the form of a mass-market paper back, seeing the Pennyroyal Press edition is at first jarring. You’re instinct is not to interact with the text as much as admire its beauty. You are acutely aware of it’s expense, and aesthetic beauty. Much like Russem’s chair, you are made emotionally aware of the book and taken aback by it. However, I would argue that Moser’s woodcuttings highlight aspects of the text and almost aggrandize its literary value. Would Twain have approved of this edition of his work? There is no way to be absolutely certain. However, the presence of the wood-engravings does draw one to the text which, is inarguably apart of the author’s vision for his work. I would argue that the aesthetic value of the text does not make it entirely inaccessible but, makes it appealing which adds accessibility and rejuvenates a classical work.

Morris’ compromise between his socialist ideals and aesthetic values maintains: “since we shall have to go through a long series of social and political events before we shall be free to choose how we shall live, we should welcome even the feeble protest which is now being made against the vulgarization of all life: first because it is one token amongst others of the sickness of modern civilization; and next, because it may help to keep alive memories of the past which are necessary elements of the life of the future” An idea which drew me to Bruce Rogers’ Song of Roland (1906) from Book Set Two. Song of Roland actively references aesthetic aspects of older books. The illumination, coloring, leading, gold leafing, and composition, all of which position it within the fine print movement, evoke the history of printing and in doing so the history of the book itself.

In both instances I am inclined to side with Morris. While, there is merit to Russem’s argument that texts must be accessible, Morris does not push against this idea. In fact, Morris uses his aesthetic idealism to make books even more accessible and remind us of their inherent value.

Song of Rolan (1906) – Bruce Rogers

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (1985) – Barry Moser