Etidorpha has been called 'the first psychedelic novel.' Whether or not that's accurate, Terence McKenna was a fan of the book, who speculated that the author's observant account of hallucinations was based on firsthand experience. When the narrator nibbles a little of one he blasts off on a trip, taking the reader with him. The narrator is sent to a cave in Kentucky that leads to the earth's lush interior, it being hollow and all. The novel begins with the narrator, The-Man-Who-Did-It, betraying an unnamed secret society, which leads to his kidnapping, a la the 1826 case of William Morgan.

Etidorhpa literary clubs were founded in the United States, and some parents even named their (unfortunate) infant daughters Etidorhpa. Eventually a popular success, the book had eighteen editions and was translated into seven languages. These first editions of Etidorhpa were distributed privately. Its title is the goddess Aphrodite's name spelled backwards. Near Fine, lightly shelf worn.Ī scarce early science fiction novel. Publisher's brown cloth with gilt lettering and design on cover and spine, top edge gilt, black coated endpapers. 'To the Subscribers' sheet is laid in at front. Another facsimile note from the author is tipped in at the rear. With frontispiece and numerous illustrations by J. Signed by the author in ink at the end of a two-page facsimile note at the front, as issued. 'synopsis' may belong to another edition of this title.Cincinnati: John Uri Lloyd, 1895.

It is presented here for the discerning reader and/or collector who appreciates the beauty and uniqueness of the original book. This masterpiece paperback edition presents the entire text (fully edited to correct mistakes and make the text easy to read) and the fantastic Knapp illustrations. Any fan of Jules Verne should enjoy this adventure. It most certainly has 'steampunk' appeal. The story presents a glimpse into 19th century science, secret societies, mystical revelations, fantasy, the occult, and even hallucinogenic mushrooms. His guide during the journey is a strange androgynous, humanoid being who has no eyes and blue skin! Eventually he meets the celestial being, Etidorhpa.

'Etidorhpa,' first published in 1895, is an incredible adventure about a strange manuscript and the story of a man who divulged the secrets of an occult organization, was kidnapped by the members and forced to go deep into a cave in Kentucky where he travels to the center of the earth!Īlong the way he discovers fantastic wonders that challenge the imagination.

Etidorhpa first edition