This entry concerns a 1975 hardcover edition of *Of Frost and Flame*, a collection of poetry by Elvira Lanza Vitoritto, published by Prairie Poet Books of Charleston, Coles County, Illinois. The volume includes a handwritten inscription from the author, addressed to her brother, Redmond, and dated Christmas 1975. This inscription provides insight into the author's personal relationships and potential influences on her work. Coles County, located in east-central Illinois, possesses a literary tradition often reflecting the region's agrarian character. Prairie Poet Books' presence in this area indicates an effort to support local and regional literary endeavors.
The book features a plain purple cover with the title and author's name rendered in a subtly darker shade of purple ink. This minimalist design is characteristic of small press publications of the period. The inscription, located on the front free endpaper, reads: "For My Brother, Redmond, / is the Flame that / melts the Frost of Hurt / and want. / With special love, / Elvira - Tommy too! / At Christmas / 1975." The cursive script is consistent with the era, and the inclusion of "Tommy too!" suggests a shared sentiment, potentially from a family member. The sentiment expressed in the inscription, "Flame" melting the "Frost," aligns with the thematic concerns suggested by the book's title, suggesting the importance of love and connection. The title page confirms the book's details and publication date. The copyright page lists the ISBN (0-915284-17-0) and the publisher's address (Box 35, Charleston, Coles County, Illinois 61920). The copyright page also notes the affiliation with the American Poet Fellowship Society, placing the book within a literary community active in the mid-1970s. The dedication to the author's parents, Frank S. and Rose Lanza, offers information concerning her personal history and potential sources of inspiration.
The collection includes poems such as "Cherry Blossoms," "To April," "Reward," and "Ritual of Joy," indicating the themes explored within the volume. The typeface is a standard serif font, typical of publications from that time. The back cover, mirroring the front, bears the publisher's information and the original prices for the bound ($7.95) and paperback ($2.50) editions, suggesting the book was originally released without a dust jacket. A purple fabric bookmark is attached to the inside back cover. The condition is good, though detailed assessment through high-resolution images is recommended to identify minor imperfections. The photographs of the book, set against a wooden table, provide a neutral backdrop for observing the book's color, condition, size, and binding structure. This copy provides an opportunity to study the work of a regional American poet within its cultural and historical context, enhanced by the author's inscription. Further research into Elvira Lanza Vitoritto's life and work would expand the understanding of this item and its place within the literary landscape of the time.