In 1967, the renowned publishing house 'Calder & Boyars' found themselves embroiled in a legal battle over an allegedly obscene publication. The controversial work in question was none other than "Last Exit to Brooklyn" by Hubert Selby Jr. "Last Exit to Brooklyn" was a gritty and raw portrayal of life in the lower depths of New York City, exploring themes of violence, sexuality, and addiction. Selby's unflinching narrative style and explicit depictions of taboo subjects pushed the boundaries of what was deemed acceptable in literature at the time. Calder & Boyars, known for their fearless approach to publishing avant-garde works, had a reputation for championing controversial and groundbreaking authors. However, this time, their boldness landed them in hot water with the law. The prosecution argued that "Last Exit to Brooklyn" was not only morally offensive but also likely to deprave and corrupt its readers. Under the Obscene Publications Act of 1959, it was illegal to publish or distribute material that had "a tendency to deprave and corrupt persons who are likely, having regard to all relevant circumstances, to read, see or hear the matter contained or embodied in it." The trial became a focal point for debates surrounding freedom of expression and censorship. Supporters of Calder & Boyars argued that the book had artistic merit and explored important social issues. They believed that literature should not be censored solely based on its explicit content. Despite the spirited defense put forth by Calder & Boyars, the court ultimately ruled against them. The judge declared "Last Exit to Brooklyn" to be obscene, leading to its temporary ban in the UK. However, this legal battle did not dampen the impact of Selby's work. In fact, the controversy surrounding the trial propelled "Last Exit to Brooklyn" to international fame. The ban only served to pique the curiosity of readers, and the book soon became a symbol of counterculture and rebellion. The trial of Calder & Boyars in 1967 stands as a significant moment in the history of freedom of expression. It highlighted the ongoing tension between artistic freedom and societal norms, provoking discussions that continue to this day. In conclusion, the publication for which Calder & Boyars were prosecuted in 1967 was "Last Exit to Brooklyn" by Hubert Selby Jr. This controversial novel tested the boundaries of acceptability in literature, sparking a legal battle that sparked debates surrounding freedom of expression and censorship. Despite the ban, "Last Exit to Brooklyn" went on to achieve global recognition and became a symbol of counterculture. The trial remains a crucial moment in the ongoing struggle to balance artistic freedom with societal norms.

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