The Compleat Angler - Softcover

Walton, Izaak

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0486431878 ISBN 13: 9780486431871

Publisher: Dover Publications, 2003

Synopsis

"Breathes the very spirit of innocence, purity, and simplicity of heart . . . it would sweeten a man's temper at any time to read it." — Charles Lamb
First published in 1653, this literary and nature classic was created by a Londoner with a passion for rustic life. As satisfying a primer on fishing as any angler could wish, it celebrates the art and spirit of fishing with verse, song and folklore, moral reflections, and timeless wisdom. Cast in the form of a dialogue between the veteran angler Piscator and his pupil Viator, it both informs and delights with an ingenious exploration of fishing's subtle intricacies and the pleasures of the natural world.

About this title

Review:

For a book to stay in print for nearly 350 years, its merits must continually entice and satisfy. The Compleat Angler qualifies on both counts. On the most obvious level, it remains as good a primer on fishing as any angler would want. But its most enduring distinction is hinted at in the subtitle--"the Contemplative Man's Recreation." Izaak Walton's sometimes convoluted 17th-century grammar can still reel in our imaginations with his graceful evocations of a life free from hurly-burly in the company of friends intent on physical and moral sustenance. "He that hopes to be a good Angler must not only bring an inquiring, searching, observing wit," suggests the master, "but he must bring a large measure of hope and patience.... Doubt not but Angling will prove to be so pleasant, that it will prove to be like a virtue, a reward to itself." Just like Walton's magnificent literary catch. --Jeff Silverman

From the Inside Flap:

[[The first unabridged cast reading. Features original song compositions. [[The Compleat Angler has been in print for over 350 years. [[As fresh and relevant today as it was two and a half centuries ago. [[Considered to be 'must' reading for every new generation of fishermen and women.

About this edition

• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 0486431878
• ISBN 13: 9780486431871
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 176