Washington Irving, often hailed as the first successful American man of letters, made significant contributions to both American and European literature. Despite being best remembered for his humorous tales, Irving's extensive body of work includes historical texts and biographies that reflect his varied interests. His literary journey is characterized by distinct phases that mirror changes in his personal temperament and broader societal transformations.

The Evolution of Irving's Literary Style

Irving's literary career began in 1802, marked by a spirit of exuberance reflective of the mood in America following independence from British rule. This period saw him adopting the persona "Jonathan Oldstyle," through which he humorously critiqued the culture, society, and politics of New York City. As he progressed, Irving matured into a more confident writer, culminating in the creation of "Diedrich Knickerbocker," a fictional figure central to his celebrated A History of New York, a work that remains a cornerstone of American comic literature.

His most creative phase was marked by the publication of The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent. This collection of short stories and essays, including the iconic "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," established Irving as an international literary figure. Despite later attempts at historical and biographical writing, many of these works, penned in his sixties, did not withstand the test of time, often criticized for their romanticism and lack of scientific rigor.

Irving's Struggle with Identity and Creativity

Throughout his career, Irving frequently used pseudonyms, reflecting his struggle to find an authentic voice. This practice stemmed partly from a lack of confidence in his literary prowess. His use of pseudonyms often served as a protective mechanism, allowing him to experiment with different styles and subjects without the pressure of personal attribution.

Irving's personal life was marked by cycles of deep melancholy, often triggered by the death of loved ones. These emotional lows were typically followed by bursts of creative energy. This oscillation between depression and creativity is evident in the recurring themes of morbidity and death in his work. Even his lighter pieces, like those in The Sketch Book, include somber reflections on loss and mortality.

Impact and Legacy of Washington Irving

Irving's influence on American literature and culture was profound. During his lifetime, owning a complete set of his works was a sign of education and refinement. He paved the way for future American writers like Herman Melville, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Edgar Allan Poe, who all acknowledged a debt to his pioneering contributions. Despite the passage of time, Irving's stories of native American humor and his portrayal of the American spirit in tales such as "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" remain enduringly popular.

The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent.

First published in 1819-1820, The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent. is a collection of short stories and essays that solidified Irving's reputation. Published simultaneously in the United States and England, it was an immediate success, showcasing Irving's ability to write with both American vigor and the finesse of British prose. The book's success inspired numerous imitations and established Irving as the first American writer to be celebrated internationally.

The collection is diverse, featuring a mix of literary essays, travel reminiscences, and stories with both American and European settings. While only a few pieces focus directly on American life, stories like "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" have become quintessentially American. Irving's adept use of the character Geoffrey Crayon ties the collection together, with themes of change, cultural identity, and the storytelling tradition running throughout.

"Rip Van Winkle": A Tale of Transformation...