by Sylvia Plath
A third world war! How I dread the thought of it. Almost all my class mates are against all war, and hope only to promote peace all over the world. It is my belief that wars are disastrous & unnecessary, if only mankind would forget its petty struggles for wealth, land and power and devote its energies, not to scientific massacre but to the promotion of brotherhood the whole world over. I am in favor of encouraging a reverence for life. Life is sacred to me, and if only we could resolve our struggles & military combat in a peaceful discussion! A third world war would be a disaster from which humanity would never recover! Those few left (it would no doubt be an atomic war) would never be able to rebuild the world again, and our civilization (if we may presume to call it that) would be degraded and destroyed also.
Berlin – ah! I am not too well equipped to answer that question. Perhaps if all Europe could forgo sovereignty and combine into an European bloc, there would be more chance for peace. Switzerland, I think, is an example to follow. She has combined varied nationalities into a neutral state. Why could not Europe, & eventually the world, do the same thing? If nationalities mingled, French, German, American, Oriental, etc., in the process of a few million years we would have one human race – united under a just power of government . . . . But that is too idealistic, I’m afraid, and has a great many flaws.
Anyway, American youth does not want to sacrifice its fittest young people on the bloody alters of another war. We have had enough of that. War is so irrational. The youngest, the strongest, the fittest are sent to be slaughtered, while the aged & crippled remain at home. If only more young people, aware of the vital hopes and the glowing promise of their lives, if only more of these could control our politics, then we might be in a better world. For instance, I think that corresponding, the way we are doing, is a great help toward peace. I consider you as a special friend, and I do not think of Germany as a cold, impersonal nation, but rather I think of Germany as made up of a lot of Hans-Joachims, all willing to be friends if only we will get to know them better.
You are so right about hope. It would be impossible to exist with out it. I know that I would be very unhappy if I had nothing to look forward to when I was feeling depressed.
I do like to dance very much, in fact we just had our class dance in-school last night.* It was formal and all the girls wore evening dresses & the boys wore tuxedos. I was at school all afternoon with some classmates putting up all the painted decorations which we’d done up around the gym. At night, with colored lights, balloons and ferns the school gym really looked charming.
I am enclosing a little folder that tells about a World Federalist Group which seems to have the right idea of world peace.
Write soon!
Sylvia.
TO Irwin Edman*
Tuesday 15 March 1949
TLS, Columbia University
March 15, 1949
Professor Irwin Edman
Columbia University
New York City, New York
Dear Professor Edman:
We the members of English 31, have read your article entitled “A Reasonable Life in a Mad World,”* which appeared in the March issue of the Atlantic Monthly. Although yours is a logical analysis of modern man’s dilemma, we do not feel that the solution which you offer is wholly adequate. In the hope that you will consider and evaluate our opinions, we should like to challenge a few of your statements.
Undeniably, part of the life of reason is the contemplation of the unchanged and the unchangeable in nature, for there is a healing, uplifting calm to be derived from nature. Indeed, there is a stability and an inexplicable order to the universe, but the point is man cannot by himself create a corresponding order in his own civilization.
Essentially, we human beings are limited. Our environment does not permit us to visualize the universal pattern of the world; the mind of no man is creative enough to comprehend the significance of the universe. Therefore, how can we rely on man alone?
Granted, you have wisely advocated the combination of stoicism, the pleasure principle, and hope. But what about the spiritual element? By this we mean the inner compulsion of every man to seek beyond himself for guidance. You mentioned nature; that is only part of the solution. We do not intend, by any means, to suggest that we encourage escape or oblivion in another world; nor do we uphold a blind beatific faith. No, none of these, but rather the recognition of a force, a creative intelligence, above mankind. By recognizing this omniscient power, man may view his problems and his goals in a less distorted relationship with the rest of the universe.
In order to reach a more perfect, a more reasonable, understanding of life, we must have an insight, an awareness of relative values. However, we cannot attain this state of discernment by using our narrow intellects alone, for we are not sufficient unto ourselves. When we acknowledge the divinity, of which we are a minute part, we may elevate ourselves spiritually, just as we do by observing nature. Then, and only then, will we attain that excellent philosophy: “a brave contemplation of what things are discoverably like and a resolute attempt to improve the lot of man in the conditions into which he finds himself born.”
Sincerely yours,
Jeanne Woods*
Sylvia Plath
TO Hans-Joachim Neupert
Thursday 14 April 1949
ALS (photocopy), Smith College
April 14, 1949
Dear Hans,
Thank you so much for the lovely Easter card which you sent me! I appreciated it so much.
It must be extremely difficult for you to study without any books – I find it hard enough to study with them! Today is our first afternoon of Easter vacation, and the whole lovely week stretches before me. I will practice tennis (I’m a terrible player, but I love the sport,) write some stories, and find more time to practice piano.
Speaking of music, I enjoy all of your German musicians’ works. They are so well-liked here in America that we think of Beethoven, Handel, Mozart, and the rest, as old friends in music. I like the power of Beethoven one of my favorites is the famous “Moonlight Sonata.” Do you enjoy Débussy? He is one of my ideal composers – his music is so clear-cut and dreamy – Have you heard “La Mer,” “La Fille aux Cheveaux de Lin,” “Deux Arabesques,” or “Claire de Lune”?
The talk about the end of the world reminds me of the stories of the revivals in America about one hundred years ago. Then, about fifty little religious sects sprang up throughout the states. The people were superstitious and believed in the deceit practiced by the leaders of these groups. Most of the factions lasted only a short time, but it was an era of emotion and “spiritual revelations.” The head of one group claimed to know that the world would end in some days. His followers became so excited that they bought ascension robes and climbed upon the nearest hill to await Judgment Day, which, of course, never came!
Your class dances sound like fun. I, too, love to dance. About classes with boy and girls, I think that is by far the best, don’t you? After all, we will be men and women together in the world when we grow up, so why not become accustomed to getting along with each other now?
Today is really the first day that spring has come. It is such a relief to see the faint sprouts of green leaves against the dark trees. The daffodils are all in bloom in our yard, and the air is sweet and earthy-smelling.
I can imagine how unsure you must feel, writing in English. I feel the same way about writing in French. It is like piecing together strange words and hoping that they will mean what you want to say. Of course there are a few expressions that are difficult to master, but I find your letters extremely interesting – and quite natural. Since you wish, I will point out a few phrases that we say a bit differently. Instead of “before some weeks,” meaning past time, we are more likely to say “some weeks ago.” And rather than “But it is here . . . we have no books,” we might begin “But here.” Instead of “the most of,” just “most of” – instead of “in some days” = “in a few days.” I had to try very hard
to find any errors in your letter, and these small changes are the only ones that I can suggest. They will, perhaps, help your writing to sound even more natural.
What American writings do you especially like? I’m glad that the library has been opened up.
One of my special friends and I have decided to take advantage of the vacation and go on a painting trip together for one whole day. We will be loaded down with papers, paints, easels, water-jars and plates (to mix paint on) as well as a picnic lunch, but what does that matter? It’s all for the sake of Art! (I might add that neither of us are very good artists, but we have such good times in spite of that fact!)
There is so much I want to know about Germany! Let’s pretend I am going to come to visit you, and in your next letter, describe where you would meet me at the railway station, and what the country is like that we would travel over to get to your house, and then all the things we could do – like take hikes or swim, etc!
I would also know what your friends and classmates are like. Would you tell me about some of them, too?
I hope that Easter brings you happiness. Do write soon!
Best of luck,
Sylvia
P.S. Do you have big fat robins that come in the spring? There is one bold fellow eating a worm on our lawn right this minute!!!
S.
TO Aurelia Schober Plath
Monday 27 June 1949*
ALS with envelope on Oceanic
Hotel, Isles of Shoals, letterhead,
Indiana University
Monday
Dear Maman,
Obviously, the first thing you’ll want to know is I’m fine! (No fever, because things go too fast to think about it.) I just love it here,* and I think everyone’s heavenly, naturally. Nothing like a little salt air and the sort of guy who’s sitting beside me to cure sunstroke, you know. I wrote to John* at 7:30 this A.M., but was too sleepy to be very witty. Time? What is the stuff, anyhow? I had a date arranged by dear old Ginny last night (Nick Safford* – a bellhop from Wellesley) but he’s gone today and I’ve spent my day with a boy from Kentucky* – eating at noon & going to chapel & on walks & watching the baseball game. I don’t think I would have met him unless we’d had a fire this A.M & part of the roof burned. Luckily no one was hurt, only scared. Hope this one lasts a day or so, but you meet so many new people every day. I’ll write again. Send up some water – there’s none to drink around here.
Love,
Sylvia
TO Aurelia Schober Plath
Tuesday 28 June 1949*
ALS with envelope on Oceanic
Hotel, Isles of Shoals, letterhead,
Indiana University
Tuesday
Dear Mum,
I hate to waste another 3¢ stamp on you, but I haven’t time to go upstairs to get postcards. I just can’t tell you all we’ve done (I played tennis today (feeling perfect)) we had another dance tonite – a costume ball, and my darling roommate & a girl I “double-date” with (both Judys – and both sweet) dressed up as poison ivy & won 3rd prize or thereabouts – I’m so proud! We all dressed in green with wreathes of leaves in our hair – and we scratched – Tell me something personal in your postcards – I don’t care about book reviews as much as you & the family. Today we went on cook’s tour – it’s such fun when you have someone (male, naturally) to go places with. Kentucky is still a constant state and I’ve got my fingers crossed. The girls are at least 2 to 1 boy, so you see it’s pretty bad. – But I’m not worried yet. John Pollard is here – what an odd thing he is – my date was telling me a lot about him I didn’t know.
I am on two wonderful workshops – the leaders matter alot and I’ve got Joe Gunde* for Personal Problems & a nice vivacious young thing for Recreation. I love everyone – but go mostly with the 2 Judys and Dick Gilbert (Kentucky) and a nice friendly guy* who sits at my table. I really don’t need any sleeping pills by the time the day is over. The food is nothing to brag about. There goes the bell – more when we have time. –
Love
Me.
TO Hans-Joachim Neupert
Monday 4 July 1949
ALS (photocopy), Smith College
July 4, 1949
Dear Hans,
I think that in the future I will send my letters by “Luftpost” as you do, for then they will fly back and forth a great deal faster. I always await your mail very eagerly, and read your letters with great delight.
How I enjoyed that little booklet you sent me! I have formed a picture of your Germany in my mind. The country must be so beautiful! Just so is our America.
I agree with you that one really must live in the foreign land to learn all the sounds and idioms. I feel I could learn French so much faster if I were surrounded by French-speaking people who could understand me only if I spoke their language.
We have completed final examinations and school is closed at last for the two summer months of July and August. How I look forward to the long days stretching ahead, even though I know they will fleet past too quickly. I am taking painting lessons this summer, so I go out driving every Wednesday morning with my teacher* in search of a suitable spot. Last week it was a group of houses reflected in a river. My watercolor sketches still look pretty messy, but I’m learning bit by bit. Someday when I’m better I will make one for you especially.
This is the first summer that I have not gone to camp. It is also the last summer I will have free – without a job, I mean. So I am going to make the most of it. Next school year is my last year in high school, so I will have to study very hard to get good marks for college. I will also be co-editor of our school newspaper,* which is a great deal of work. Therefore, I plan to have a real vacation at home these two months. This evening I went with a date to watch fireworks which celebrate our 4th of July holiday – our Independence Day as you probably know already. Everyone gathers in the town park to watch the colorful display after dark. We took a blanket and lay on our backs to watch the noisy explosions of rockets, bursting into red, green, blue and gold stars overhead. It was really breathtaking! There were fiery comets and blazing pinwheels of sizzling light, and firecrackers went off periodically with a series of sharp “pops!” There was ice-cream covered with chocolate to eat on sticks, and everybody was laughing together. Whenever an especially beautiful rocket went off against the black sky, blossoming out into burning bouquets of light, a huge sigh of awe would rise from the crowd of thousands as if it came from one throat. This is one of our favorite American holidays.
Last week I had just about the most wonderful experience of my life – I went to a Unitarian religious conference on a small island* off the coast of Maine (perhaps you already know a bit about this one of the New England states.) There were 100 girls & sixty boys as well as numerous speakers attending the conference. Picture a small, rocky island in the middle of the ocean (well, almost the middle). There are no trees, only jutting expanses of stone cliffs where the surf dashes in ever changing shades of blue and green. The horizon is a circle of water all around. Everywhere you look, your eyes lift to the glorious blue sky – cloudless by day, star-studded by night. What a place! I came away even more determined that there is a magnificent power above us all – call it nature, or call it God – which is responsible for the vast beauty of heaven and earth. The view of land and sky is open to us all – no matter where we live or what we do. I have been very cynical, at times, but I cannot help but be awed by the huge glory of the painted sunsets, or the first rosy light of dawn across the ocean. In the morning we spent two hours out on the rocks in the sunlight listening to a speaker and discussing the topics we had chosen. There were about 10 different groups. Mine was called “Personal Problems,” and here we talked over our troubles, and tried to help each other out. There was time for swimming before lunch, and afterwards we had another discussion group in the afternoon. After supper there was something planned for every evening – square dancing, a costume party (my roommate & I won 3rd prize – we came all dressed i
n green crowned with leaves as “poison ivy”) stunt night. We also had movies. The last night was the gala occasion – we could stay up until two in the morning dancing, or singing, or sitting on the wide verandah of the old building and talking. By this time, everyone had made special friends, and so as the fated hour drew near, I felt a little touch of sadness. The boy I was with lived in New Jersey (quite far away) so we knew that we would probably never meet soon again.* We sat out on the porch and watched the moon sink lower and lower until it was time to go in. Everyone was going on the early boat the next day so there were many sad farewells. I must confess that I shed a few tears.
But here I am at home again and my friends here are once more taking the place of those I will never see again.
You asked about high school – there are 600 people in our building (a very modern, beautiful place, with broadcasting systems from room to room) and about 150 in my grade – boys and girls.
Your trip sounds lovely – I would very much like to come by bike – it’s just about the best way to see a beautiful country.
As for me, I have not yet been to Yellowstone, but it is one of the best spots of natural beauty here. What are your projects for this summer? And for your next school year? Write soon!
Best wishes,
Sylvia
TO Hans-Joachim Neupert
Wednesday 24 August 1949
ALS in greeting card* (photocopy),
Smith College
August 24, 1949
Dear Hans,
I am sitting in my back yard, and as I write to you, a dry yellow leaf drifts down from the trees above my head. This has been a perfect summer, but ever since our last rainfall there has been a sharpness in the air that fortells autumn. (Here, in New England we have had an abnormally dry season. The grass is all dry and brown and the flowers wilt and die on the stems.)