'A fountain of gladness'

 

“The land of literature is a fairy land to those who view it at a distance, but, like all other landscapes, the charm fades on a nearer approach, and the thorns and briars become visible.” – Washington Irving

 

Born in New York City on this date in 1783, Irving is one of America’s earliest and most beloved storytellers, best known for his tales about "Rip Van Winkle” and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.”  His book of short stories, simply known as The Sketch Book, was the first widely read work of American literature, helping advance the international reputation of American writers.

 

Also a noted essayist, biographer and historian,  he also was one of the leading diplomats of his time, serving as U.S. Ambassador to Spain in the 1840s – a time when relations between our young nation and the well-established European nation were crucial.  

 

Among Irving’s historical writings were bestselling biographies of George Washington, Oliver Goldsmith, and Muhammad, and histories of 15th-century Spain on subjects such as Christopher Columbus, the Moors and The Alhambra.  

 

 Irving was a tireless advocate for stronger copyright laws to protect the young American writing community at a time when their works often were pirated, and he was instrumental in helping create international copyright laws.

  

Noted for his kindness and support of others, he said, “A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles.”