The Compleat Angler, Izaak Walton
For a book to stay in print for nearly 350 years, its merits must continually entice and allure. The Compleat Angler, by Isaak Walton,
satisfies that on two counts. On the most obvious level, it remains as
good a primer on fishing as any angler would want. But its most
enduring distinction--what's raised an essential sporting how-to to the
level of literary classic--is the one cast off by its subtitle; 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.
"One of the most gifted literary innovators of his time." -- James Prosek
