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exploring emotional landscapes
sometimes, a deep sense of empathy arises when we think of loved ones, particularly when we perceive them experiencing sadness or distress.
this feeling can amplify affection, deepening our love and care. the yearning to reconnect, to be present in that moment, can be incredibly powerful.
a cherished missive from the past
imagine receiving a letter penned during a languid lecture at college, sent to a specific address: 14, rue richepanse.
this particular communication, intended for arrival within a two-week stay, carried with it an embrace of "mad tenderness." the message, signed by p.
tchaikovsky, is integral to understanding the life of oscar wilde. a poignant aspect of this correspondence is its historical use in a blackmail attempt against wilde, highlighting the vulnerability and intensity of personal relationships in that era.
the artistry of affection
another compelling piece of correspondence celebrates the multifaceted nature of a beloved.
the writer praises their partner's sonnet, marveling at how their "rose-red lips" are equally suited for the melody of song as they are for the passion of kisses. there's a beautiful intertwining of the spiritual and the sensual, where the "slim gilt soul" navigates both passion and poetry.
the comparison to hyacinthus, adored by apollo in greek mythology, underscores the profound and almost divine nature of this love.
longing for connection and solace
a sense of melancholy pervades another personal note, questioning the beloved's solitary presence in london and their planned departure for salisbury.
the writer encourages a visit to salisbury, suggesting it as a place to find tranquility amidst the "grey twilight of gothic things." however, the overarching sentiment is a deep desire for the person's return, a place that feels incomplete without them.
the closing, "always, with undying love, yours, oscar," conveys a profound and enduring devotion.
historical echoes of devotion in japan
our exploration extends to historical accounts from japan, specifically focusing on the relationship between takeda shingen and kosaka masanobu.
while not a traditional letter, excerpts from a contract co-signed by shingen and masanobu offer a glimpse into their bond. masanobu served not only as a general in shingen's formidable army but also as his lover.
these documents, precise in their historical context, shed light on the personal dynamics within influential historical figures.
a contract of fidelity and trust
a significant passage from this historical context clarifies the nature of their intimacy.
yashichiro (likely a reference to masanobu) explicitly states that he has never shared a bed with the writer as an attendant, nor have they engaged in sexual activity, either during the day or night. the writer emphasizes a current lack of desire for such intimacy, expressing a strong inclination towards a different kind of connection with the recipient.
they further pledge not to cause hurt and to be open about any doubts the recipient might have regarding these matters.
swearing by ancient vows
the commitment expressed in this contract is further solidified by a powerful invocation of divine retribution.
the writer solemnly swears that should they ever breach these promises, they are willing to face the "divine punishment of the great myoshin of the first, second, and third shrines of the province of kai, mount fuji and shirayama, and particularly Hachiman Bosatsu, and all the higher and lower deities." this oath underscores the profound seriousness and sanctity of their commitment.
russian literary milestones and tender notes
in the realm of literature, mikhail kuzmin's 1915 publication of "wings" marked a significant moment, being the first russian gay novel.
during kuzmin's hospitalization for heart disease, his lover, yuri yurkun, sent him three heartfelt notes, scribbled on scraps of paper. tragically, kuzmin passed away just two years later. these poignant letters, thoughtfully translated for this feature by john a.
barnstead, a retired associate professor of russian literature, offer a deeply personal insight into their relationship during a difficult time.
a final embrace
the concluding sentiments from one of these notes are simple yet profound: "and you get at least a little sleep for the time being.
i kiss you hard. i shall return soon." these words, carrying the weight of impending separation and the warmth of enduring affection, resonate with a deep emotional current, capturing the essence of love and longing in the face of adversity.