Is this the folkiedave theory of critical validation based on how much you can flog a book for?

Ungrateful wretch. I offer you a heavy book for half the price it is available elsewhere post free and you whinge. Last time. I am fussy about the people I sell books to.

I have a first edition of A Shropshire Lad. Is it folk? Is it feck BTW

Well spotted - it is in fact poetry. But it is about Joy and Beauty and Love and Simplicity. Try interesting Lizzie, she is into that sort of thing. Of course all that stuff is really symnbolic and allegorical you know. And the significance of the number 63? I'll let you decide on that one......

what's it worth?

You want me to value it for you? I can do this - but I have to warn you it is a skilled job and I do charge. Contact me and I will give you a list of my charges. Alternatively you could see how much people are charging via ABE. That comes a lot cheaper.

And does it make Housman a good poet?

Does the book make Housman a good poet? Well a lot of people seem to think so. After all it has been in print continuously since 1896.

But if you aren't sure why did you buy the book? Because it was a first edition and cost £0.20p? I'll buy it off you for that price.