Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of January 30, 1873

Overview

Trouble arises when a singer takes offense over a perceived slight in the invitation process, creating another unnecessary social friction. The couple manage separate calls and a quiet meal with a new arrival, but their privacy is repeatedly interrupted by visitors. The day reflects the constant tension between artistic business and the intrusions of society.

Content

Thursday, January 30:

Bad news very early in the morning: Herr Betz, who is to sing the “Magic Fire Music,” has taken offense because R. did not make the invitation himself, and he has written a rude letter to friend Weitzmann.

We pay calls, R. and I, separately. I welcome Marie Muchanoff, who has just arrived, and have a meal with her. We believe we have the evening to ourselves and are reading Jakob Grimm's autobiography when Herr Eckert and his wife interrupt us, as before them Niemann had done.