Portnoy’s Complaint by Philip Roth

Roth liked to say that a person should have shame in the world, but not shame when he writes. A testament to that belief and an absolute classic of 20th century american fiction is Roth’s big, bold novel Portnoy’s Complaint. A truly iconic cover to match the work written within, designed by Paul Bacon, a perfect example of the designer behind the ‘Big Book Look’. It also features one of the all time greatest author portraits on the back dust jacket, photographed by Ann Mudge. 

This edition along with most of his other american publications up until 1975 carry the same typographic signature. It consists of a bold condensed Caslon variant with swashes, set center-aligned, with the title and the author’s name separated by colour.

Highly recommend checking out Jason Diamond's multiple articles on Philip Roth, in particular his piece in GQ on the damning state of mens reading habits and why the boys should pick up some Roth.

Hardback

Sixth Printing, Published in 1969

Published by Random House, New York