How to identify the First Edition of American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis...
Nearly identical, the true first edition, pictured right, is less toned, and brighter.
Exploring Bret Easton Ellis' American Psycho: A Collector's Guide
Bret Easton Ellis' American Psycho is a novel that has stirred both admiration and controversy since its first publication in 1991. Central to the allure of collecting this provocative work are the various first edition paperback releases, each with its own unique history and appeal.
Notice the Vintage logos: the true first edition (pictured top) shows the original vintage logo.
History of Publication
Originally scheduled for release by Simon & Schuster in 1990, American Psycho faced immense backlash from both feminists and conservative groups due to its graphic content depicting violence and sexuality. Amidst the uproar, Simon & Schuster dropped the book, prompting Ellis to find a new publisher. Vintage Books eventually released the novel in 1991 after a legal battle, and it quickly became a cultural lightning rod.
First Edition Paperback Release Points
Vintage Contemporaries Paperback (1991): The true first edition.
This edition marked the first paperback release of American Psycho by Vintage Books. It features the iconic cover art that has become synonymous with the novel—a minimalist design that captures the chilling essence of Patrick Bateman's world. This is the true first edition.
The last line of the copyright page shows a full descending number line from 10-1, double spaced.
The rear cover of the paperback shows a small photo of the author to the left, but more importantly, the price on the rear should show U.S. $11.00
The last pages of the first issue show a catalog of offerings by Vintage.
On the left, notice the last line, the full descending number line. This is the true first edition. On the right, you’ll also see a full numberline, sequenced from odds to evens - however this is on a much later issue. The copyright pages are identical, sans the numberline.
The rear cover shows the price on the first issue (pictured left) to be U.S. $11.00. The rear cover for the later issue (pictured right) shows an increased price of $15.00.
The rear page(s) of the first issue (pictured left) shows offerings by Vintage Contemporaries. Pictured right, the rear page(s) show adverts for other works by the author, including one here showcasing Imperial Bedrooms, which was released in June of 2010, nearly 20 years after the first edition paperback of American Psycho was released.
Reception Amongst Fans and Critics
Upon its release, American Psycho sparked intense debate and polarized opinions. Fans of Ellis' previous works found his exploration of consumerism and nihilism through the lens of a homicidal protagonist both unsettling and thought-provoking. Critics, however, were sharply divided; while some praised its literary merit and social commentary, others condemned its explicit depictions of violence as gratuitous and morally repugnant.
Over time, the novel has achieved cult status, with a dedicated fan base that continues to grow. Collectors value the first edition paperbacks not only for their literary significance but also for their historical context within the broader landscape of American literature.
Conclusion
As collectors and enthusiasts delve into the world of Bret Easton Ellis' American Psycho, they discover not just a novel but a cultural artifact that reflects and challenges societal norms. The various first edition paperback releases encapsulate different moments in the novel's tumultuous journey from controversy to canonization. Whether for literary appreciation or as pieces of cultural history, these editions hold a unique place in the hearts and shelves of those captivated by Ellis' daring exploration of the darker facets of human nature.
