Contemporary presentation copy, from the library of oliver sacks. First edition of this collection of philosophical essays by one of the founders of modern chemistry. A presentation copy inscribed in a contemporary hand, probably that of the recipient, 'Ex dono Nobiliss: Authoris', and from the library of neurologist Oliver Sacks, with his octopus bookplate on the front pastedown.

'At Stalbridge in the mid-1640s Boyle embarked quite self-consciously on a career as a writer. Contrary to what might be expected from his later publications, his efforts were not initially devoted to science'. He 'experimented with other literary genres, and the best of his compositions of this period display a real vigour and solicitude for stylistic elegance. Among them were pious essays, and reflections on scriptural passages and events which formed the basis of his later Occasional Reflections (1665)' (Oxford Dictionary of National Biography).

The Occasional Reflections sees Boyle in 'one of his happiest moods' playing the part of a young country squire of simple habits: reading, immersing himself in nature, riding, angling, and enjoying the company of his spaniel. His florid style in these essays was satirised by Jonathan Swift in Occasional Meditations on a Broomstick and it is believed that his reflection on 'The Eating of Oysters' inspired Gulliver's Travels (Fulton, Bibliography of the Honourable Robert Boyle VIII).

First edition, presentation copy inscribed in a contemporary hand, 'Ex dono Nobiliss: Authoris'; 8vo (163 x 108 mm), title page in red and black, engraved headpiece and decorative initial, contents a little toned and marked, primarily in the margins, a little wear to the edges of the early and late leaves; contemporary tan calf rebacked in the late 19th or early 20th century, spine gilt in compartments, black morocco labels, double fillet and corner-pieces in blind, recent conservation of the joints by Charles Gledhill, very good condition; 229pp.