"I published, privately, a collection of my serious poetry I had written over the years. I only published 50 copies, which I gave to friends, in a special deluxe edition. It was ridiculously expensive but I'm glad that I did it"

Tom Glazer’s reflection on his decision to publish a highly limited, private edition of his poetry offers a window into the personal significance and value he assigns to his creative work, distinct from mass publication or commercial success. By choosing to release only 50 copies, Glazer highlights an intimate approach, each book becomes more than a product; it is a meaningful artifact, a gesture of sharing with those closest to him. The phrase “special deluxe edition” suggests meticulous care in presentation, indicating his desire to elevate the poems beyond the ordinary, treating them with reverence and pride.

The admission that the project was “ridiculously expensive” underscores the personal investment involved, not just financially but emotionally. Glazer’s willingness to shoulder this expense affirms that the endeavor served a deeper purpose for him than profit or widespread recognition. For many artists, the act of creation and the thoughtful curation of one’s work for a select group can be a profoundly satisfying culminating act; it allows an artist to control the narrative, context, and appreciation of their output, at least for a select audience.

Glazer’s satisfaction, “I’m glad that I did it”, reveals that the act of creating tangible, beautiful versions of his poetry, and giving them to friends, brought fulfillment. There is a sense of closure and celebration: by transforming his “serious poetry” into cherished gifts, he ensures that his creative efforts are both honored and shared in a deliberate, heartfelt manner. The quote suggests that sometimes, the true reward for an artist lies not in public acclaim, but in the private joy of having crafted something meaningful and sharing it with those who matter most. The “private” nature of the publication stands as an act of love and memory, a testament to the enduring personal value of art created and disseminated on one’s own terms.