Case 3: Literary Friendships
This exhibit contains a variety of respectful valedictions, but this case is the only one containing letters that close with the word “love.” Some of the writers represented here knew each other before either one became famous, and others became friends after reading each other’s work. Their correspondence displays the importance of honesty and encouragement as well as humor and affection. Many of the letters mention plans for future visits, suggesting that as helpful as messages can be to maintain connections across a distance, they are no replacement for face-to-face interactions.
Up Next: The New Yorker (Vol. 25, No. 22)