Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of April 13, 1870

Overview

Praise for Hans in Florence and news of his possible Beethoven centennial role in Milan stir Cosima’s hope for his independent success. Wagner writes a final poem to the king, believing that verse may reach him where argument has failed. Tender joking about Cosima’s innocence, Fidi, the children’s visit to Countess Bassenheim, and the beginning of Oedipus at Colonus fill a day of fragile calm.

Content

Wednesday, April 13:

In the A.A.Z. there is a report on the musical situation in Florence; in it Hans is much praised, and it is said that he has been invited to conduct the Beethoven centennial concerts in Milan. R. writes a poem for the King (dernier effort!), he feels it will do good to address him in this way.

Yesterday R. said to me, “Let’s just not have too much Makarie—with you I am always fearing some holy calamity.” “You are so innocent,” he tells me. If I can only give him the tranquillity he needs! Drive with the children to Countess Bassenheim’s, glorious sunset. R. tells me with a laugh that the only man I care for is Fidi! Start on Oedipus at Colonus.