Unwavering Loyalty: Story of Devoted Companionship
In a remarkable stroke of fate, a young admirer named Ida Herz crossed paths with the renowned author Thomas Mann on a tram ride in 1924. Recalling this encounter in his novel "Doctor Faustus," Mann humorously depicted Herz as a timid, blushing, and here-and-there annoying character. This coincidental meeting marked the beginning of an extensive, yet largely unsung, correspondence that lasted until Mann's death in 1955.
Interestingly, Herz had previously met Mann in 1922, though he couldn't recall the encounter. After their unexpected reunion, she wasted no time. She delved into Mann's works, read "Buddenbrooks," "Royal Highness," and "Tonio Kröger" with particular fervor, and couldn't help but express her admiration. Unshaken by his reputation, she approached him and initiated a friendship that would become the pinnacle of her life.
Over the years, they corresponded extensively, and the letters they exchanged offer insights into Mann's thoughts on literature, politics, and his personal life. When the Nazis rose to power, Herz expressed her concern for Mann and volunteered to save his working materials for the Joseph novels when his son Golo could no longer enter the family's house. Her bravery paid off, as she successfully managed to pack and send the manuscripts and books to a safe address. Despite her efforts, she was denounced and spent six weeks in investigative custody, eventually escaping to Zurich and later London.
The correspondence between Mann and Herz reveals more than just a friendship; it offers a rare glimpse into the intimate world of the Mann family. For instance, Mann wrote about his new life in California, his literary successes, his family, and his political oppositions to the Nazis. In return, Herz sent books, newspaper articles, prints, and even Easter eggs. Their correspondence holds a harmony that was shattered only after Mann returned to Europe following the war. Herz yearned for closeness, while Mann sought distance, causing friction in their relationship.
This newly published collection of letters between Thomas and Ida provides an intimate look into their complex and intriguing friendship. The correspondence, edited by Holger Pils, offers enlightening details about Mann's life, work, and political views during a critical period in history. It serves as a testament to a friendship that persisted despite adversities, a bond that sustained through postcards, letters, visits, and mutual respect. For those interested in Mann's life and work, this compilation is a valuable addition to their understanding of this prolific author and his lasting impact on literature and society.
- Ida Herz's fascination with fashion-and-beauty extended to Mann's literary works, as she read his novels with a passionate fervor.
- The correspondence between Mann and Herz revealed a shared interest in pop-culture, with discussions on literature, politics, and even celebrities.
- In the realm of sci-fi-and-fantasy, Mann wrote about his new life in California, painting pictures of a world far from the ordinary.
- In an attempt to keep the bond intact, Herz often sent books as tokens of their friendship, thereby enriching their shared literary lifestyle.
