Herman Melville’s novel “Moby Dick” recognized as a literary masterpiece

On my walk at Woodlawn Cemetery in The Bronx, New York City, I discovered one of the most fascinating grave monuments I’ve come across on my many cemetery walks — the grave of the great American novelist, Herman Melville, who many consider the author of the greatest novel ever written, Moby-Dick (1851).

Tucked along a quiet stone footpath, Melville’s monument stood solemnly — but what made it truly remarkable was what surrounded it. His grave was littered with pens and pencils left behind by admirers, paying tribute to his literary genius. Dozens of writing instruments were carefully placed on top, at the base, and across the granite scroll engraved on the front of the monument.

Herman Melville died in New York City, on September 28, 1891. He was 72.

1819-1891

Pens and pencils along with a small plastic blue whale beside the monument.

Elizabeth Shaw Melville’s monument beside her husband’s grave. Elizabeth played a big role in her husband’s works copying and editing his manuscripts, both before and after his death. It was said she was extremely devoted to the author.