Washington Irving, página 8 de 23

At Sunnyside, Irving wrote his " Life of Oliver Goldsmith." Putnam, the bookseller, had said to him one day : "Here is Fosters Life of Goldsmith ; I think of republishing it.""I once wrote a Memoir of Goldsmith," answered Irving, " which was prexed to an edition of his works printed at Paris ; and I have thought of enlarging it and making it more perfect."" If you will do that," was the reply of the bookseller, "I shall not republish the Life by Foster." Within three months afterward, Irvings " Life of Goldsmith" was nished and in press. It was so much superior to the original sketch, in the exactness of the particulars, the entertainment of the anecdotes, and the beauty of the style, that it was really a new work. There is no biographical memoir which carries forward the reader so delightfully and with so little tediousness of recital or reection. The reader is always being tempted to wish that Irving had written more works of the kind; but this could hardly be ; for Where could he have found another Goldsmith ?

Юбилейное издание, посвященное 175-летию первого выхода в свет «Сказок Аламбры».

The "Tales of a Traveller" are most remarkable for their second part, entitled " Buckthorne and his Friends," in which the author introduces us to literary life in its various aspects, as he had observed it in London, and to the relations in which authors at that time stood to the booksellers. His sketches of the different personages are individual, characteristic and diverting, yet with what a kindly pencil they are all drawn! His good nature overspreads and harmonizes everything, like the warm atmosphere which so much delights us in a painting.

In 1836, Irving published " Astoria ; or, Anecdotes of an Enterprise beyond the Rocky Mountains ;" a somewhat curious example of literary skill. A voluminous commercial correspondence was the dull ore of the earth which he rened and wrought into symmetry and splendor. Irving reduced to a regular narrative the events to which it referred, bringing out the picturesque whenever he found it, and enlivening the whole with touches of his native humor. His nephew, Pierre M. Irving, lightened his labor materially by examining and collating the letters and making memoranda of their contents.

These are the notebooks of Washington Irving, containing the jottings made by Irving during his travels in Europe between 1815 and 1830. These journals have been kept in the Irving family until within the last few years of the 19th century. The number of people who think they could write is larger than most of us suspect; it is pleasantly larger than the number who think they can write. There is not one of the former but will be eager to read Irvings notebooks. For they are the genuine backstage of literature. They are real notebooks: they are not journals, written with an eye on the public, as are most of the notebooks that push into print. They are not a collection of Irvings profound thoughts. Neither are they commentaries; Waterloo was but just over, but you will find in these pages few choice bits of gossip concerning the men and affairs of that momentous period. Obeying the strange impulse which seems to be common to all of us, big and little, Irving did set down each day the state of the weather and if he slept well. But this is about as far as the journalizing goes: the rest is observations, character sketches, scraps of sentences, skeleton plotsthese three volumes should help to dispel the notion that writers "make up" their books; only the poor writers invent anything, for they write for the sake of writing; fellows like Irving write for the sake of life, straining to catch and fix some of its overwhelming stream of pictures and passions.

"The Life Of George Washington" is a monumental work on the life of one of the most famous American presidents. Originally published in five volumes between 1853 and 1859, it is a treasure chest of information on Washington and the Civil War. This work is presumeably the most intimate and fascinating biography of a man who worked his way from an Army commander to the first President of the United States. This is volume five out of five.

The poverty of our literature in reference to Mahomet and Mahometanism is so conspicuous and so inconvenient that we may well receive with gratitude the authors very able endeavour to relieve it. With freedom from prejudice and independence of judgment, he combines an extensive and intimate knowledge of the most authentic sources of information, and, after several years of labour, has produced this volume in the hope of contributing to the complete elucidation and final settlement of Mahomets real character and claims. After a careful examination of them, and after comparing them with those of sundry of his predecessors and contemporaries, it appears to us that the author has abundant reason to be gratified with the success he has achieved. Most conscientiously prepared, and based on authorities whom the Moslems themselves appeal to as decisive, his work may be used with equal confidence both by the historian and the controversialist. We heartily commend it to every one who, on so important a subject, desires to have what, on the whole, is probably the best and most complete book in any language, and shall avail. ourselves of it and of other sources of information, in this paper, to present a few of the leading events of the Prophets life, with a view to a brief illustration of his character and of the means and meaning of his success.

Several papers were written by Irving in 1839 and the following year, for the " Knickerbocker," a monthly periodical conducted by his friend, Lewis Gaylord Clark, all of them such as he only could write. They were afterward collected into a volume, entitled " WolfertsRoost," from the ancient name of that beautiful residence of his on the banks of the Hudson, in which they were mostly written. They were, perhaps, read with more interest in the volume than in the magazine, just as some paintings of the highest merit are seen with more pleasure in the artists room than on the walls of an exhibition.

In 1830 Irving published his " Chronicles of the Conquest of Granada," one of the most delightful of his works, an exact history, for such it is admitted to be by thosewho have searched most carefully the ancient records of Spain, yet so full of personal incident, so diversied with surprising turns of fortune, and these wrought up with such picturesque effect, that, to use an expression of Pope, a young lady might read it by mistake for a romance.

In "Chronicle of the Conquest of Granada, from the mss. of Fray Antonio Agapida," Washington Irving masterfully weaves historical narrative with rich, romantic prose, immersing readers in the complex tapestry of Granadas fall to the Catholic Monarchs in the late 15th century. Drawing upon Fray Antonio Agapidas manuscripts, Irving combines meticulous research with vivid storytelling, exploring themes of cultural collision, religious fervor, and the human costs of conquest. His literary style oscillates between the solemnity of history and the vibrancy of a novel, offering a poignant portrayal of the era that resonates with contemporary reflections on imperialism and identity. Washington Irving, often regarded as the father of American literature, was deeply influenced by his European travels and interests in Spanish culture. His fascination with the Moorish legacy in Spain and his broader romantic ideals prompted him to encapsulate this dramatic historical moment. Irvings extensive background in law, combined with his literary pursuits, allowed him to approach historical writing with a unique blend of narrative flair and scholarly rigor, crafting works that would deeply influence American fiction. This book is highly recommended for readers who appreciate historical narratives rich with character and complexity. Irvings exploration of Granada not only illuminates a crucial moment in Spanish history but also evokes timeless questions about power, culture, and the consequences of conquest. Enthusiasts of literary history and those keen to understand the intersection of narrative and history will find Irvings work an invaluable addition to their reading.

In "The Sketch-Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent.", Washington Irving masterfully intertwines fiction and non-fiction, crafting a rich tapestry of essays, stories, and sketches that illuminate early American life. Published in 1819, this seminal work is celebrated for its elegant prose and charming narratives, showcasing Irvings keen observations of both the American landscape and its cultural tapestry. The literary context of the periodAimarked by a burgeoning American identity and a fascination with RomanticismAiprovides a backdrop for Irvings reflections on themes such as nostalgia, nature, and the interplay of old-world Europe and new-world America. Washington Irving, often regarded as one of the first American writers to gain international acclaim, drew heavily from his own travels and experiences in Europe. His deep appreciation for folklore, as well as his critique of contemporary American society, manifests in his vivid characterizations and whimsical storytelling. Irvings ability to blend humor with heartfelt sentiment is a hallmark of his style, reflecting both his diverse influences and his desire to establish a distinctly American voice in literature. This collection is essential reading for those interested in early American literature and the development of national identity. "The Sketch-Book of Geoffrey Crayon" not only offers insightful exploration into the complexities of American life but also invites readers to appreciate the artistry of IrvingAos prose, making it a timeless treasure.

In "Abbotsford and Newstead Abbey," Washington Irving embarks on a richly woven exploration of two significant literary landmarks, interlacing personal reflection with historical narrative. This travelogue not only recounts Irvings visits to Sir Walter Scotts Abbotsford and Lord Byrons Newstead Abbey but also captures the essence of Romanticism prevalent in early 19th-century literature. Employing a lyrical prose style, Irving immerses readers in the lush landscapes and architectural grandeur of these sites, while inviting them into the storied lives of their revered inhabitants. His ability to blend vivid descriptions with thoughtful commentary positions the work as an essential piece in the pantheon of travel literature, highlighting the interconnectedness of place and poetic legacy. Washington Irving (1783-1859), an American author and diplomat, is often regarded as the father of American literature. His travels across Europe, coupled with his keen interest in the lives of literary icons, inspired his keen observational skills and narrative flair. IrvingAos deep admiration for Scott and Byron, both titans of literary history, profoundly influenced his writing, as he sought to connect American readers with the romantic ideals and cultural heritage of their European counterparts. "Abbotsford and Newstead Abbey" is a must-read for those who cherish the legacies of Romantic literature and travel writing. Readers will find Irvings evocative prose not only a feast for the imagination but also a gateway to understanding the cultural significance of these iconic sites. This text is not merely a travelogue; it is a celebration of literary heritage that invites reflection on the enduring impact of these writers.

In "Old Christmas: from the Sketch Book of Washington Irving," the reader is transported to a bygone era, where the charm and customs of the holiday season are vividly brought to life through Irvings masterful prose. This collection of essays and stories, originally published in 1820, employs a romanticized literary style, combining rich descriptive language with a nostalgic tone that reveals the warmth and merriment of Christmas celebrations in early 19th-century America. Irvings work deftly navigates the complexities of tradition and the evolving spirit of the holiday, highlighting the interplay between cultural practices and sentiments during a time of burgeoning American identity. Washington Irving, often heralded as AmericaAos first significant writer, drew from his own experiences and observations when composing "Old Christmas." His travels to England and exposure to European traditions inspired him to reflect on the nature of American culture, particularly the ways in which English customs were adapted and embraced in the New World. Irvings pioneering literary efforts, along with his interest in folklore and the emerging American landscape, provide crucial context for understanding the charm and depth of his Christmas tales. This enchanting collection is a must-read for anyone interested in the roots of American holiday traditions, as well as those who appreciate the delicate art of storytelling. "Old Christmas" serves not only as a delightful holiday read but also as a reflective commentary on the nature of celebration, making it an essential addition to both personal and academic libraries.