Wagner's Letters

Richard Wagner to Mathilde Wesendonck

December 4, 1860 · Paris

Overview

A hasty note of relief: Wagner's recovery is progressing well, the illness has been a serious warning that makes him plan his future carefully so as to fulfil his life-task, and he will bide his time over Tannhäuser, which he will not conduct himself.

Letter

In haste a heartfelt greeting to the precious Child, and some relief! —

During the past week my recovery has made good progress. Strength is returning; I'm looking better; people are pleased with my appearance. —

So it has been a serious warning. It made a great impression on me: I am carefully mapping my future, to be able to fulfil my life-task; yet I have hopes, again, that I can fulfil it! —

Are you better satisfied, dear Liege?

As for Tannhäuser, we'll bide our time; I don't conduct the band myself, and the rehearsals over — all is over! —

Soon more from the Living.

Source: Richard Wagner to Mathilde Wesendonck, trans. William Ashton Ellis (Charles Scribner's Sons, 1905), No. 117

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