Thorn in the Flesh : A Grim-memoire with Exclusive Audio CD, "Roie Speaks." by Rosaleen Norton, Keith Richmond (Introduction) - 2009

York Beach, ME: Teitan Press, 2009. Edition limited to 880 Hand Numbered copies. New, in DJ. Book Launch Issue, Includes Exclusive "Roie Speaks.", Audio CD. "Rosaleen Norton, the so-called "Witch of Kings Cross," was a natural rebel whose bohemian lifestyle, outspoken occultism, and unusual and often sexually-charged artwork attracted widespread condemnation from the conservative establishment in twentieth century Australia. She suffered frequent arrests, her art exhibitions were raided, a book of her art banned in both Australia and the USA, and in one notorious case, her paintings were burned at the censor's order. She died in relative obscurity in 1979, yet left the world a rich and unusual artistic legacy. Some of this was hidden away in two battered metal trunks which contained fragments of her unfinished autobiography, Thorn in the Flesh, various occult writings, letters, drawings, poems, photographs, small paintings, and scrapbooks. It was Norton's wish that one day a selection would be made from this material, and it would be published. This book is that selection. It comprises poetry (often humorous), reminiscences, and various occult jottings, with reproductions of two stunning photographs of Norton, as well as some half-a-dozen examples of her art (mainly in color). Most of this material has never been publicly seen before. Although by definition fragmentary, the texts combine to give a very personal introduction to the magical world of this truly remarkable woman. The book includes an Introduction by Keith Richmond, who has previously edited a collection of Norton's short stories: Three Macabre Stories, and played a key role in organizing the "Occult Visions of Rosaleen Norton" retrospective of her art that was held in Sydney in 2000".. First Edition Limited/Hand Numbered. Hard Cover, Full Cloth, Sewn. New/New. Illus. by Full-color dustjacket, black and white glossy frontispiece & 8 pages of color & copious black and white illustrations. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall.