These two volumes of Alfred Domett's 1872 poem, Ranolf and Amohia, gives an indication of its length. The poem, which was subtitled A South-sea day-dream, occupied over 480 pages of print and was over 100,000 words. Its length was only one of the aspects of the poem which harmed its popularity in a busy colonial society. Although the poem's use of Māori mythology and scenic settings gave it a self-conscious New Zealand identity, the slow pace and ponderous style did not win over many readers.
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Alexander Turnbull Library
Reference:
Alfred Dommett, Ranolf and Amohia: a dream of two lives. London: Kegan Paul, Trench & Co, 1883 (B-K-1099-Covers)
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