An Almanac of Twelve Sports (eBook)

In 'An Almanac of Twelve Sports,' Rudyard Kipling combines his lyrical prowess with William Nicholson's vibrant woodblocks to render the spirited tableau of 19th-century sports. This collection is not merely a sequence of poems but a rhythmic dance through the calendar year, reflecting the changing seasons and the corresponding sports that enthralled the British public. The language is terse yet evocative, each verse brimming with the energy and nuances of its subject. The book operates as a time capsule, preserving the cultural zeitgeist of an era when leisure activities were stratified and ceremonious, and sports began to shape national identity. Kipling's historically contextualized and stylized poetic forms make strategic use of the brevity and directness that hark back to traditional English ballads and sporting chants.

Born in British India in 1865, Rudyard Kipling was a prolific writer and poet, most noted for his works during the British Raj. His upbringing and experiences in different colonies are often reflected in his writing, which frequently incorporates themes of imperialism and adventure. Kipling's firsthand knowledge of British society and its imperial pursuits undoubtedly informed his portrayal of the sports popular among the colonial elite. His engagement with these pastimes reveals both an intimate familiarity and a storyteller's flair, weaving anthropological insights into every stanza. The collaboration with Nicholson, an accomplished graphic artist, indicates Kipling's desire for a visually immersive experience complementing his rhythmic narrative.

For aficionados of literature and history, 'An Almanac of Twelve Sports' is a rich, dual-media journey into the sporting life of yesteryear. Kipling enthusiasts will find the trademark energy and robustness of his prose, while lovers of art and culture can appreciate the interplay of words and illustrations. This book stands as an invitation to explore how sport and leisure intertwined with social identity at the turn of the century, making it a worthy addition to any collection that celebrates the intersection of societal reflection and artistic expression.