Robinson Crusoe Illustrated by N. C. Wyeth was what the
cover read. It was one of the classic and famously beloved volumes published by
Scribners in the early 20th century. The book was a solid hard-cover
edition that looked good and felt good to the hand. The illustrations were
compelling, lush, heroic things that as far as I remember discovering was truly
“love at first.” For all it’s worth this
encounter was something that has hooked me for life; the love of illustration,
books and most particularly the illustration work of the master; Newell Convers
Wyeth.
Wyeth had illustrated Treasure Island, The Last of
the Mohicans, The Yearling and others in his time for Scribners. His
work was always colorful and exciting. When I found Robinson Crusoe in the
school library I had no idea how renowned N. C. Wyeth was. I just knew he was phenomenal
in what he was doing and I was always able to imagine and wonder, even becoming
lost in his detailed emotionally realistic visions. Wyeth towers among the best
and is still much an inspiration for me.
Wyeth would influence generation of young people including
his children, especially his son Andy who became equally famous in his own
right and then grandson Jamie who continues the family legacy. The Wyeths are
certainly America’s finest and most cherished family of the visual arts. They are
also great ambassadors of excellence and accomplishment.
In a rite of passage when our school closed due to integration
in 1966 we were allowed to take one book from the school library. Robinson
Crusoe Illustrated by N.C. Wyeth was my;
without hesitation, choice. I have it even now and as I hold it and peruse it, I
remain in awe as it makes me smile.
