This was the last book of poetry published during the lifetime of Seamus Heaney, a Noble Laureate in Literature. An exhibition of the book, prints, and original watercolor paintings by Wendy Artin was held at the American Academy in Rome, while Heaney was Poet-in-Residence in the spring of 2013. He died four months later.

The idea for the selection came from Helen Vendler, who made the initial choices of poems with classical themes and then conferred with Heaney. Wendy Artin, an American watercolor artist living in Rome, was recommended for the project by the painter Eric Fischl.

The type chosen is based on the fifteenth-century roman of Aldus Manutius, used for his Hypnerotomachia Poliphili of 1499, thought by many to be the most beautiful illustrated book of the Renaissance. The watercolors are reproduced same size.

Issued in an edition of 300 numbered copies (plus 26 lettered copies hors de commerce), this copy the sole remaining copy available directly from the publisher, and is marked as "Display II". The condition is fine, although please note that the slipcase is lacking. This copy signed by both Heaney and Artin, as issued.