writer (1837-1909). Autograph letter signed. London. 8vo. 2 pp.
4.500 €
(94969)
In this beautiful letter, Swinburne expresses his deep literary and political admiration for Victor Hugo. He conveys his joy and pride each time he receives a note from Hugo. Swinburne is particularly pleased that Hugo appreciated his study on "L'Homme qui rit," which was published in the newspaper "Le Rappel." He mentions the challenges of translating Hugo's work into English, specifically noting the difficulty of translating the word "effleurer." Swinburne also shares that he is finishing a volume of republican poetry, some of which will appear in "Le Rappel." He acknowledges the audacity of following in Hugo's footsteps but hopes that Hugo will find echoes of his influence in Swinburne's work.
Swinburne concludes by expressing his hope to thank Hugo in person one day for his profound impact on him and the world..
writer (1837-1909). Autograph letter signed ("A. C. Swinburne"). Henley-on-Thames. 25.10.1872. 8vo. 2 pp. on bifolium.
2.800 €
(33395/BN28497)
To the Italian poet P. G. Maggi, who had in 1871 published a translation of Swinburne's "Blessed Among Women - To The Signora Cairoli". Swinburne expresses his sympathy for the cause of the Risorgimento and mentions his great Baudelaire elegy, "Ave Atque Vale": "I fear you must have thought me very negligent + discorteous not to have written to you before in acknowledgment at one of your letter of July last, + of the very beautiful version which you have done me the honour to make of my poem addressed 'Alla Signora Carioli:' which reached me without address, or I should at once have written to thank you for the great pleasure it had given me.
Nothing, in fact, connected with my work, could give me so much happiness as to know that it found favour - or at least that my intentions found acceptance - in the sight if those Italians whose approval + sympathy I should esteem the truest honour + highest reward I could wish to earn. I wish only that the work were worthier, + more adequate to express my love of your country + its cause - which is the cause of Europe + of the world. - I have not by me a copy of my verses in memory of Baudelaire; but on the first opportunity I will desire my publisher to send you a copy. Your letter of July was directed to an address which I left two years ago; + thus, passing from place to place, it was some months before it came into my hands. I now hasten to acknowledge it + to apologize for the long but involutary delay [...]". - Traces of folds; one edge slightly gnawed (touching text). Includes a copy of Maggi's translation [16 pp. 8vo; Londra, 1871], as well a manuscript of the same, probably in Maggi's own hand (24 pp. 8vo)..