The Compleat Angler

Walton, Izaak; Arthur Rackham (illus.)

ISBN 10: 185648095X / ISBN 13: 9781856480956

Published by The Promotional Reprint Comapn, 1992

About this Item

Gently read. May have name of previous ownership, or ex-library edition. Binding tight; spine straight and smooth, with no creasing; covers clean and crisp. Minimal signs of handling or shelving. 100% GUARANTEE! Shipped with delivery confirmation, if you're not satisfied with purchase please return item! Ships USPS Media Mail.

Seller Inventory # OTV.185648095X.VG

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Compleat Angler
• Publisher: The Promotional Reprint Comapn
• Publication Date: 1992
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 185648095X
• ISBN 13: 9781856480956
• Binding: Hardcover
• Illustrator: Arthur Rackham
• Condition: very_good

About this title

Synopsis

"The Compleat Angler" is immortal and timeless, as it celebrates the peace and meditative contentment of angling. The practice of angling has indeed changed in the three centuries since Izaak Walton wrote, but the philosophy and pleasure remain. The aspects of folklore conjured up by Walton's anecdotes, quotations and verse still convey that idyllic world of the riverside.

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