The Smoker's Year Book

Oliver Herford

Nov. 2022 · DigiCat

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In 'The Smoker's Year Book,' Oliver Herford wittily encapsulates the essence of a smoker's journey through the year. His poems celebrate the intimate relationship between the seasoned smoker and their cherished pastime, each verse emanating the rich literary style for which Herford has become renowned. Crafted with the flourish of an artist and the precision of a wordsmith, Herford's poetic tribute is set against the backdrop of the passing seasons, offering a lyrical examination of the solace and ritual found in the embrace of 'Saint Nicotine.' This compilation is not merely a collection of musings about tobacco; rather, it stands as a cultural artifact within the larger context of early 20th-century literature, reflecting the social mores and leisurely pursuits of the time. Oliver Herford's expertise as a writer, artist, and illustrator enables him to create immersive and visually rich experiences within the confines of his written word. Dubbed 'The American Oscar Wilde,' Herford exhibits a similar dexterity of wit and profundity. His background as an artist suffuses his poetry with a sensorial depth that complements the text, while his personal appreciation for the act of smoking undoubtedly informed this work, elevating it beyond mere verse to a poignant reflection on a ritual that offers both comfort and camaraderie through the changing seasons. 'The Smoker's Year Book' is a delightful offering to anyone with an affinity for tobacco's legacy, as well as those who appreciate the charm of well-crafted poetry. Herford's homage to the camaraderie and contemplation afforded by a simple smoke is a must-read for enthusiasts of literature and lore alike. It is recommended not for the promotion of smoking itself, but for the window it provides into a bygone era's cultural tapestry, and the enduring artistry of a truly American literary figure.

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Oliver Herford (1863–1935) was an Anglo-American writer, artist, and humorist, often referred to as 'The American Oscar Wilde'. Born in Sheffield, England, Herford moved to the United States with his family as a child. He attended the Art Students League of New York, and later, the Slade School of Art in London. His talents spanned both visual and literary arts, and his witty aphorisms and whimsical poetry gained him a reputation as a minor master of light verse and satire within his era. Herford's literary contributions include a charming assembly of books, often featuring his own illustrations. Among his notable works is 'The Smoker's Year Book' (1908), a quaint piece offering a light-hearted, poetic reflection on smoking, adorned with his own playful drawings. His writing style is characterized by a combination of whimsy and sharp wit, and he often engaged in wordplay and humorous commentary on society. Herford's body of work reflects his espousal of aestheticism and his ability to observe and articulate the world with a quip and a twinkle. Though much of Herford's work is out of the mainstream literary canon today, his influence remains within the world of children's literature and illustration, as well as among aficionados of early 20th-century humor.