Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of April 16, 1876

Overview

A visit from Prof. Bernays, admired as the leading authority on Goethe, makes a strong impression and proves most agreeable. Later Dr. Schonaich arrives unexpectedly, and the evening turns to intellectual talk; in solitude she feels music welling up from her own mood, and the sinking sun brings her to tears.

Content

Sunday, April 16:

Visit from Prof. Bernays from Munich, the greatest living authority on Goethe; very pleasing acquaintance.

In the afternoon, somewhat to our dismay (inserted later: “surprise”) Dr. Schonaich; we ask him to stay with us.

When I am alone in the room, I feel an urge to go to the piano, and my mood translates itself easily into sounds. The departing rays of the sun greet me; thoughts bring me to tears.

In the evening Prof. Bernays much “intellectual” conversation.