Orono, Maine. The Blanket Conspiracy 1970. "Moth". First Edition. Copyright and introduction both dated 1970. Also at copyright page are thanks to: "The Classes of 1934, '72, and '73."
This is the first appearance in book form of three poems by
"Steve" King, pre-dating any commercial printing of his work.
The most noteworthy contribution is "The Dark Man", genesis of his sprawling epic series "The Dark Tower".
"Moth" is
significant for Stephen King collectors primarily because it marks one of King's earliest published works and is considered a rare and collectible piece of his early writing career. It had a limited print run and rare to find copies in good condition. It offers collectors a glimpse into King's formative years as a writer.
"Moth" was published in
1970 when Stephen King was still a relatively unknown writer. It predates his major breakthrough with "Carrie," which was published in 1974.
For collectors, owning a copy of "Moth" represents a connection to King's early days as a writer and provides insight into his development and style before he became widely recognized.
While King had been initially published in 1965 in Comics Review and in a few magazines in the late 1960s and his college newspaper, this is King’s first
significant publication of fictional works in book form (three poems).
This poetry anthology predates Carrie (1974) by four years.
As with many rare books, the value and collectibility of the
1970 "Moth" book have increased over the years, especially as Stephen King's fame and influence in the literary world have grown. Collectors often seek out such early editions to complete their collections or to own a piece of literary history.
$2,250