Seven volumes, one signed. 
 
The Swallow Press & Harcourt Brace Jovanovich: 1966 - 1980. Octavos. First editions except volume four which is a later printing. 
Small tears, smudges, a little spotting, and scuffing are along some of the folds and most of the edges of the jackets. A set in very good condition; vol. four is signed. 
 
Nin's diary was a legend of a literary monument before it was even published. It is life made modern epic. There are full portraits of Old World eagles of culture, American artists on the rise, lyrical investigations of the darkest desires, and passionate descriptions of everywhere she goes. It has created legions of converts who've made living and writing all one piece a la Nin. These seven volumes, one signed, are a home for a reading life. 
 
“How to defeat this tragedy concealed within each hour, which chokes us unexpectedly and treacherously, springing at us from a melody, an old letter, a book, the colors of a dress, the walk of a stranger? Make literature. Seek new words in the dictionary. Chisel new phrases, pour the tears into a mold, style, form, eloquence. Cut out newspaper clippings carefully. Use cement glue. Have your photograph taken. Tell everyone how much you owe them. Tell Allendy he has cured you. Tell your editor he has discovered a genius, and turn around into your work again, like a scorpion in his fire ring, devouring himself.”