Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of April 2, 1873

Overview

The morning begins with a clerical visit that opens into discussion of church authority, doctrine, and the uneasy position of a thoughtful dean within his institution. The conversation frames Protestant life as intellectually unstable, while the dean himself presents as both burdened and self-aware. Richard remains unwell and hesitant, pulled between melancholy at home and the need to walk. The day ends, as so many do, with dictation and the unfinished pressure of creative work.

Content

Wednesday, April 2:

R. is oppressed by the thought that he will soon have to announce that the performances are being postponed. Unbelievable Loser escapades, and Kafka wants, with R.’s help, to buy one of the King’s palaces for his bank, promising him a commission of 20,000 florins!!

Walk in the woods with the children; Fidi not with us, but somewhat better. R., indisposed with a cold, visits Herr Feustel, also the bookbinder Senfft, with whom the poor assistant has now found shelter. Did nothing in the evening.

A telegram arrives from Herr Loser, asking if he can definitely count on R. for the end of April. R. replies in the negative to this piece of presumptuousness. Much annoyance for R. in connection with our house.