THE GOFF An Heroi-Comical Poem 1793

Thomas Mathison's The Goff, published in 1793, is a significant work from the realm of sports literature. The poem, spanning over 300 lines, is notable as the first printed book entirely dedicated to golf. The narrative centers on a game played on the Leith Links, vividly capturing the essence of early golf culture.  

Debate continues over the origins of golf—whether it developed independently on the seaside links of Scotland or was imported from Holland. Regardless, it is clear that golf is an ancient game that garnered early royal attention and approval, ultimately becoming a significant part of Scottish national identity. 

Written in a satirical style reminiscent of a Greek epic, the poem describes a match between two protagonists, featuring local figures of the time. Presided over by the goddess Golfina, the poem portrays the gods interfering in the game to assist their favored player. The primary characters, 'Castalio' and the younger 'Pygmalion', are identified in the poem's notes as Alexander Dunning, “late governor of Watson’s Hospital, an excellent classical scholar,” and Mathison himself, “author of the Poem...where he describes his low stature, his skill in Goffing, and his employment at the desk, as a writer.” 

Additionally, the poem mentions the 'Caledonian Chiefs', leading golfers of the time and prominent members of Edinburgh's social elite. This group was instrumental in forming the earliest known golf club, the Company of Gentlemen Golfers, established in 1744. 

The third edition, misleadingly labelled the 'second edition' on the title page, is considered the rarest of the three editions. This imprint followed the initial publications of 1743 and 1763, featuring a dedication "To all the lovers of Goff" and two additional short poems. It divulges the actual names that were abbreviated in previous editions, giving prominence to the historical narrative surrounding the history of golf. 

Peter Hill, the publisher, typically printed in the hundreds rather than thousands. This scarce volume, with WorldCat listing only seven editions in eleven libraries worldwide and none in the British Library, is in remarkable condition. The slightly later binding, bearing the label of the esteemed Henry Sotheran & Co booksellers, further attests to its distinguished provenance. The identity of Samuel Chick, as noted on the ex libris label, remains a mystery. 

Mathison's The Goff is more than just a poem; it is a historical document offering a glimpse into the early days of golf, its enthusiasts, and its cultural significance in 18th-century Scotland.