'A fountain of gladness'

 

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

 

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

 

Also a noted essayist, biographerand 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 relationsbetween our young nation and the well-established European nation werecrucial.  

 

Among Irving’s historical writingswere bestselling biographies of George Washington, Oliver Goldsmith, andMuhammad, and histories of 15th-century Spain on subjects such as ChristopherColumbus, the Moors and The Alhambra.  

 

 Irving was a tireless advocate forstronger copyright laws to protect the young American writing community at atime when their works often were pirated, and he was instrumental in helpingcreate international copyright laws.

  

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