The Lemon Tree. With an Introduction by W.B. Yeats. London: J M Dent, 1937. First Edition. Publisher’s grey paper boards, title lettered in blue along spine, in original printed dust jacket. A fine bright copy.

With a six-page introduction by W.B. Yeats, followed by his poem ‘At Bracelona’ and a essay entitled ‘Almost I Tasted Ecstasy’ by Margot Ruddock.

Marguerite Ruddock, or better known by her stage name Margot Collis, was a woman of many talents, known for her work as an actress, poet, and singer. However, what truly put her on the map was her tumultuous love affair with the renowned poet, W.B. Yeats when they met in 1934 – Yeats was 69 and Ruddock was 27. Her brief but intense love affair with Yeats has become the stuff of legends. Their relationship took a toll on Ruddock, who became mentally unstable after the affair ended. Tragically, she would later pass away in another institution, St. Ebba’s Hospital in Epsom, at the young age of 44. Yeats was forever inspired by Ruddock, and his poem “A Crazed Girl” is believed to have been written about her.

Their correspondence was published as ‘Ah, Sweet Dancer,’ edited by Roger McHugh, in 1970.

[Wade 284]