The Enchanting Buttonwood Cottage: A Literary Landmark and a Haven of Inspiration

Nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of East Hampton, New York, Buttonwood Cottage stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of literature and the power of creative inspiration. This charming white cottage was the beloved home of Rue Matthiessen, a renowned author, editor, and literary critic who played a pivotal role in shaping American literature during the mid-20th century.

Buttonwood Cottage

by Rue Matthiessen

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	36282 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	93 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Matthiessen's life was a symphony of literary endeavors. He was a prolific writer, penning novels, short stories, essays, and reviews that explored the human condition with both depth and sensitivity. As an editor, he helped nurture the careers of some of America's most celebrated writers, including James Baldwin, Eudora Welty, and William Faulkner. And as a critic, he championed the works of groundbreaking authors, influencing generations of literary enthusiasts.

Buttonwood Cottage served as Matthiessen's sanctuary, a haven where he could retreat from the bustling world and immerse himself in the written word. The cottage, with its cozy fireplace, ample bookshelves, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, provided the perfect environment for contemplation and creativity.

Matthiessen's connection to Buttonwood Cottage was profound. He purchased the property in 1942, and it quickly became the epicenter of his literary life. Here, he wrote some of his most acclaimed works, including the novel "At Play in the Fields of the Lord" and the essay collection "The Responsibilities of the Critic." The cottage also hosted countless literary gatherings, where Matthiessen and his fellow writers engaged in lively discussions on literature, politics, and the nature of human existence.

The cottage's importance extends beyond its association with Matthiessen. It played a pivotal role in the development of the East Hampton literary community. In the post-war years, East Hampton became a haven for writers, artists, and intellectuals seeking refuge from the pressures of urban life. Matthiessen and Buttonwood Cottage became a central hub for this creative community, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and nurturing the literary aspirations of countless aspiring writers.

Today, Buttonwood Cottage stands as a National Historic Landmark, a testament to Matthiessen's legacy and the enduring power of literature. The cottage has been meticulously preserved, ensuring that future generations can experience its charm and draw inspiration from its literary heritage.

Visitors to Buttonwood Cottage are greeted by a sense of tranquility and timeless beauty. The cottage's white clapboard exterior, surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, evokes a sense of serenity and peace. Inside, the cozy living room, with its fireplace and comfortable furnishings, invites visitors to relax and imagine the literary conversations that once took place within its walls.

The cottage's library, with its shelves lined with an impressive collection of books, provides a testament to Matthiessen's love of literature. Visitors can browse through his personal library, discovering the works that influenced and inspired him. The writing desk in the study, where Matthiessen penned his masterpieces, offers a glimpse into his creative process and the magic that unfolded within the cottage's walls.

Buttonwood Cottage is more than just a physical structure; it is a living testament to the power of literature and the transformative influence of art. Through its association with Rue Matthiessen and its role in fostering a vibrant literary community, the cottage has become a symbol of the indomitable spirit of creativity and the enduring impact of words.

As visitors leave Buttonwood Cottage, they carry with them a sense of awe and inspiration. The cottage's legacy reminds us of the importance of embracing creativity, nurturing our imaginations, and seeking out those places that spark our own literary aspirations.

In the words of Rue Matthiessen, "The essential is to begin, and to continue. The act of writing itself will cleanse and clarify the mind, and with the clarity will come the discovery of one's true voice."
Buttonwood Cottage stands as a timeless reminder of these words, inviting us all to embrace the power of literature and to pen our own stories that will resonate for generations to come.

Buttonwood Cottage

by Rue Matthiessen

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	36282 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	93 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE