Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of January 16, 1873

Overview

After writing to the children and making a few visits, the day is largely social and politically charged. Wagner's acquaintances discuss how hostile press reports may have been engineered to stir opposition against him, suggesting the ongoing conflict around his reputation and productions. The evening ends at the Schleinitzes' with a visit from members of the Wagner Society. Wagner uses the occasion to present his concert plan, indicating that public advocacy remains central to the trip.

Content

Thursday, January 16:

Wrote at last to the children; visited Frau v. Schl., then home. R. goes for a walk and at once encounters Eckert and Niemann. The latter declared that all the nasty reports concerning the Tristan affair were given to the newspapers by Herr v. Hülsen himself, in order to raise feelings against Lohengrin by suggesting how arrogant Wagner is, committing an affront against the theater management, etc.

Dinner at the Schleinitzes’, and in the evening a visit from some members of the Wagner Society; R. puts forward his plan for a concert.