The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving

A great work of American folklore and storytelling, something I remember from my childhood. Could those feelings of spookiness and chills be evoked once again as an adult reader? This is a short story and to give it its true veneration, I read it one dark and stormy evening by candlelight, just before Halloween. 

The story starts with a description of Sleepy Hollow and explains how it was the home of the early Dutch settlers. But it's the phrase 'A drowsy, dreamy influence seems to hang over the land' that really sets the scene, as the folklore of the magical folk and their supernatural experiences is laid out. And everyone knows of the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow.

The main character has the wonderful name of Ichabod Crane and is tall and lanky, described as looking like a weather cock. Much is given to the character with charming imagery and language, as is the scenery and foods, typical of the Victorian style. With his aim to gain the hand of a popular heiress, he finds himself travelling home alone. This is where the story really comes alive.

The atmosphere is very eerie and tense as the ghost stories fill his head. Superstitions, goblins and of course, the headless horseman, are all he can think about. Trees, horses and the dark landscape all contribute to the chilling tone. A wonderful story for reading out loud, that really fires the imagination.

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First published as a short story in The Sketch Book Of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent by C.S. Van Winkle on 23 June 1819, in instalments. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow was published in 1820. Many other editions are also available.

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