The Lion and the Unicorn. Socialism and the English Genius.

First edition. Sm. 8vo. Pp. 126, [2]. Publisher's oatmeal cloth, lettered in dark green to spine. Illustrated dust jacket designed by Zec (priced 2s. net to front flap). No. 1 in the publisher's 'Searchlight Books' series, an imprint that was discontinued the following year after their offices were bombed. 5000 copies print run.

Hint of dusting and spotting to book's top edge, dustwrapper lightly soiled with a couple of minute closed tears to upper panel, else Fine. An exceptionally fresh copy.

A three-part essay lambasting Britain's outdated class system which only a socialist reform would boost the haltering war effort against Nazi Germany. The first section, "England Your England," begins with the inimitable opening line: "As I write, highly civilized human beings are flying overhead, trying to kill me." It is often reprinted as a standalone piece. "One of the most moving and yet incisive portraits of the English character, and a minor classic in itself." –Arthur Koestler

[Fenwick A.9a]