Pursuits of Literature: A Satirical Poem in four dialogues with notes. Pursuits of Literature: A Satirical Poem

"The Pursuits of Literature: A Satirical Poem in Four Dialogues, with Notes" by Thomas James Mathias is a notable work of late 18th-century English literary satire. Published anonymously, the poem combines satirical verse with extensive notes and commentary on contemporary writers and literary culture. The work appeared in multiple editions in 1798, and the anonymous publication was widely associated with Mathias.

London: T. Becket, 1798. 8vo. (4.75" x 8.375"). Bound in full dark brown leather with a six-panel spine. The gilt decoration is faded, with worn gilt rules and some loss to the spine, which has a wrinkled appearance. Corners are bumped.

An interesting late 18th-century example of English literary satire, particularly appealing for its commentary on the writers and literary culture of the Georgian period.