The Never Sweats literary society is abuzz with excitement as they prepare to welcome a magnificent statue of Mark Twain, the patron saint of their group. This event, scheduled for July 24th, is a testament to the society's deep-rooted love for history and community. But what makes this occasion truly special is the story behind the statue itself, a narrative that intertwines with the life and work of Mark Twain, the legendary author of 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn'.
The statue, a bronze masterpiece by Gary Lee Price, is a gift from Gary and Susan Clemons of the Lake Shore House in Glenbrook. It depicts Mark Twain reading 'Roughing It', a book that holds a special place in Twain's literary journey. This choice of book is particularly intriguing, as it was one of Twain's first published works, marking the beginning of his illustrious career. What many people don't realize is that 'Roughing It' was not only a personal favorite of Twain's but also a book that helped establish his reputation as a writer, showcasing his unique style and wit.
The Never Sweats society, with its commitment to preserving Twain's legacy, has chosen a fitting location for the statue. The Fox Brewery, now known as The St. Charles, holds historical significance for Twain. It was here that he discovered the literary lodestone of his career. This discovery, as McAvoy Layne, a columnist and Chautauquan, puts it, is like finding a Monday through Friday preacher whose sermons, though not reverently pious, are fervently American. The statue, therefore, serves as a reminder of the power of literature to inspire and connect people across time and space.
The ceremony, which will take place from 5-6 pm, will be a celebration of gratitude and community. McAvoy Layne, who will speak as the ghost of Mark Twain, will deliver a few short speeches, reflecting on Twain's life and work. The event will also feature a short welcoming ceremony at McFadden Plaza, just outside the Fox Brewery, where the Never Sweats gather for lunch on the last Friday of each month. This gathering, a testament to the society's love for history and community, will be a fitting backdrop for the unveiling of the statue.
The statue, with its bronze depiction of Twain reading 'Roughing It', will serve as a visual reminder of Twain's enduring legacy. It will be a focal point for the society's efforts to preserve Twain's wit and wisdom, and a symbol of the power of literature to connect people across generations. The Never Sweats, with their dedication to Twain's work, are not just preserving a literary icon but also ensuring that his voice continues to resonate with future generations.
In my opinion, the arrival of this statue is a testament to the enduring power of literature and the importance of community. It is a reminder that, even in the face of uncertainty and change, the stories and ideas of the past can continue to inspire and connect us. The Never Sweats, with their commitment to Twain's legacy, are not just preserving a literary icon but also ensuring that his voice continues to resonate with future generations.
