Wagner's Letters

Richard Wagner to Minna Wagner

September 5, 1841 · Meudon

Subject

Birthday poem (extract)

Overview

The closing lines of a comic birthday poem for Minna, in which, penniless while composing The Flying Dutchman, Wagner tells how God descended in a cloud, praised her as a good wife, and left charming gifts for her at his feet.

Letter

These things are for you—take them and enjoy them! God remembered you: in His opinion, you are a good wife—therefore give up worrying! One who has such a good reputation with God can expect many good things in the future, as a reward for faithfulness and confidence. Just keep this confidence—everything will be all right!

R.

Source: Letters of Richard Wagner: The Burrell Collection, ed. John N. Burk (Macmillan, 1950), No. 36