The Compleat Angler: Or; the Contemplative Man's Recreation - Hardcover

Walton, Izaak; Cotton, Charles

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1848375867 ISBN 13: 9781848375864

Publisher: Arcturus Pub, 2010

Synopsis

A pastoral discourse on the joys and stratagems of fishing, this is one of the most frequently reprinted books in English literature. Since the late 18th century more than 300 editions have appeared as Walton's name became known everywhere in the land. This lovely hardcover edition is complete with line drawings and illustrations to enhance the reading experience.

Walton’s attractive style in dialogue and description, his enthusiasm for innocent outdoor recreation and his genial partiality for the past have lifted this work out of the category of handbooks into great literature. Walton explores in sometimes whimsical, sometimes philosophical fashion matters touching upon his great pastime; he includes anecdotes, songs, descriptions of fish and their habitats, and most beautifully the countryside where he fished. 

The Compleat Angler, first published in 1653, has become a classic of English literature. Where other angling books are of limited appeal to those who do not fish, The Compleat Angler inspires readers from all walks of life to go in search of the timeless English countryside that Walton evokes with such love. Despite the chaos of 17th-Century England, Walton appears to have spent his life in an oasis of calm conviviality and, remarkably, he succeeded in botling it forus to enjoy more and more with each century that glides silently by. Innocent, playful and philosophical by turns, The Compleat Angler is not only a guide to the ancient art of fishing, but a hymn of joy to the English countryside, good conversation and the old-fashioned virtues of friendship.  

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.

Edition details

• Publisher: Arcturus Pub
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 1848375867
• ISBN 13: 9781848375864
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 208