Mr Lear: A Life of Art and Nonsense

Edward Lear is a well-loved author known for his nonsenses, natural history paintings, landscapes, and travel writing. Jenny Uglow's biography brings us his swooping moods, passionate friendships, and restless travels, showing how he lived on the boundaries of disciplines and desires.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 656 pages
Publication date: 17 October 2019
Publisher: Faber & Faber

Edward Lear, a renowned author and artist, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature and art. His diverse talents span from joyous limericks to heartfelt love songs, and his remarkable natural history paintings, landscapes, and travel writing have earned him widespread acclaim. Despite his association with the Victorian era, Lear's genius for the absurd and his intricate wordplay make him a truly modern spirit. What sets him apart is his ability to blend humor with profound insights, often masking his struggles with epilepsy, depression, and loneliness.

Jenny Uglow's captivating biography, beautifully illustrated, delves into the life of this extraordinary man. It reveals his sweeping moods, deep-rooted friendships, and restless travels. Above all, it showcases how Lear lived on the boundaries of disciplines and desires, embodying an exile of the heart.

Born in 1812 in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Lear's early years were marked by a thirst for knowledge and a love for the natural world. He began his artistic journey by studying at the Royal Academy of Arts, where he honed his skills in painting and drawing. However, it was his nonsensical writings that truly set him apart.

Lear's limericks, with their playful and often absurdist nature, captured the hearts of readers worldwide. His ability to turn everyday objects and situations into hilarious and imaginative verses was unparalleled. From "The Owl and the ********" to "The Jesting Pilate," his limericks continue to be celebrated for their wit and humor.

In addition to his nonsensical writings, Lear was also a master of natural history painting. His detailed and realistic depictions of birds, insects, and landscapes showcased his keen observation skills and his ability to capture the beauty of nature. His paintings, such as "The Goldfinch" and "The Water-Snake," are considered masterpieces of British art.

Lear's travel writing, too, was highly acclaimed. His accounts of his adventures in exotic lands, such as "A Journey to the Shores of the Great Indian Ocean" and "A Visit to Jamaica," brought the world to his doorstep and inspired generations of travelers.

But despite his success and acclaim, Lear's life was not without its challenges. He struggled with epilepsy and depression, which often led to periods of isolation and loneliness. However, his humor and resilience remained unwavering, and he continued to create and inspire until his passing in 1888.

Lear's legacy continues to thrive today. His nonsensical writings and natural history paintings have been celebrated by artists and writers alike. His influence can be seen in the works of authors such as Lewis Carroll and Roald Dahl, who drew inspiration from his playful and imaginative spirit.

In conclusion, Edward Lear is a true Renaissance man, whose talents and contributions to literature and art have left an indelible mark on the world. His nonsensical writings, natural history paintings, and travel writing have entertained and inspired generations of readers and artists. Despite his struggles with epilepsy, depression, and loneliness, his humor and resilience remained unwavering, and he continued to create until the very end. Lear's legacy reminds us of the power of imagination, humor, and the human spirit to overcome adversity and live life to the fullest.

Weight: 562g
Dimension: 132 x 197 x 3 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571269556
Edition number: Main