"BOOK NUMBER 50
(turning the page creates and destroys the image.)
Autumnal Equinox 1974

Construct a Western Codex book consisting of images on thrity transparencies. Process the film- positives by developing, short stop but no fix. Wash, dry and under proper safelight, hand bind as a leather case bound book. Place completed book in a light- tight box.

Present the boxed book to the viewer. Upon opening the box and viewing the entire book will not fog at once. Opening to the first page, the viewer will glimpse the image as it quickly blackens. The black will protect the remainder of the book from the light. Upon turning each page, the viewer will momentarily see the image as it sacrifices itself to protect the remaining pages."

Keith Smith, Book 50, 1974. Book number 50 is reproduced in its entity above. It exists not as a physical object but only as an idea conveyed through text. It is an example of a conceptual book.

(Smith Keith, 2002, p. 44)

It inspires me to tears.