It was a celebrity catch-up ahead of its time. On a balmy September morning in 1887, Mark Twain met Robert Louis Stevenson, of Treasure Island and Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde fame, in New York. The two literary giants took a stroll along Washington Square before settling down on a bench to chat-for five hours straight. Among the many things they talked about was the subject of fame.
"(We) tried to find a name for the submerged fame, that fame that permeates the great crowd of people you never see and never mingle with, but who read your books and have an affection for you... and you will remain in the home of their hearts' affection forever and ever," recalled Twain in a speech from 1908. "Stevenson and I decided that of all fame, that was the very best."
On hindsight, "forever and ever" is an appropriate estimation. Stevenson's body of work, which amounts to 13 novels and eight books on travel, are revered in modern literature. Marked by a fascinating blend of adventure, imagination and creativity, they are informed and inspired by his extensive travels through France, the US and the Samoan Islands in the South Pacific, where he eventually settled.
It is thoroughly appropriate, too, that both Stevenson and Twain continue to be fervently celebrated today. Montblanc, for one, has been paying tribute to legendary writers from Oscar Wilde to Franz Kafka since 1992, when it introduced the Writers Edition series of commemorative writing instruments. The Mark Twain Writers Edition collection was released in 2010. This year, Montblanc serendipitously unites both men by inducting Stevenson into the illustrious lineup with a collection of four exclusive writing instruments dedicated to the Scottish novelist, poet and travel writer.
Treasure Hunt
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Beachfront Paradise
Known for its intricate architecture and contemporary structures, Iniala Beach House in Phuket stands as a grand retreat just a few steps away from the shores of Natai Beach.
Emerald Magnificence
Embrace the splendours of Hokkaido's natural beauty from a different yet equally majestic perspective at Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
The Real Deal
In Guadalajara, one discovers the rise of luxury tequila Volcan de mi Tierra and the passion in bringing forth the highest expression of the spirit.
This Month's Feed
Only the best dining and drinking spots in Singapore.
World Builders
At Bellerby & Co., hundreds of hours are spent crafting globes that don't just depict the planet-they chart, in mesmerising detail, your individual journey or your family's history upon it.
The Home Of Equine Elegance
AWARD-WINNING INTERIOR design studio EightyTwo transforms the essence of comfort, luxury and aesthetic elegance with bespoke home solutions that are crafted to reflect one’s personal tastes and enhance your well-being.
Film-schooled
Which Autumn 2024 collection best embodies your sartorial look?
Lead With Passion
At a glamorous event in Singapore, Tumi launched the Asra collection for Spring/Summer 2024 with the help of South Korean superstar Mun Ka Young.
Bag The Look
From utilitarian daily beaters to versatile style statements, here are the latest work bags to elevate your office cachet.
The Vanity Table
The latest grooming products to know.