The post details a surprisingly delightful email exchange between the author and the famously reclusive Edward Gorey. Initiated by the author's simple fan letter expressing admiration for Gorey's work, the correspondence blossomed into a series of witty and whimsical emails. Gorey offered insights into his creative process, shared anecdotes about his cats, and displayed a playful, self-deprecating humor that contrasted sharply with his macabre artistic style. The exchange reveals a warm, engaging personality hidden behind the public persona of the enigmatic artist, offering a glimpse into the private world of Edward Gorey.
The article "The Curious Correspondence," penned by Gilbert Alter-Gilbert, recounts the author's protracted and fascinating epistolary relationship with the celebrated artist and author Edward Gorey. Spanning several years, beginning in the mid-1970s and extending beyond Gorey's demise in 2000, the correspondence unveils a multifaceted portrait of the enigmatic artist.
Alter-Gilbert's initial contact with Gorey was prompted by a shared fascination with the obscure and macabre, specifically the works of Victorian writer Sheridan Le Fanu. This mutual interest served as the catalyst for an exchange of letters, postcards, and ephemera, revealing Gorey's distinctive personality and artistic sensibilities. The correspondence, described in meticulous detail by Alter-Gilbert, was characterized by Gorey's whimsical and often cryptic prose, punctuated by his signature pen-and-ink drawings, frequently depicting anthropomorphic animals engaged in darkly humorous scenarios.
The author carefully delineates the evolution of their communication, noting the gradual shift from discussions of literary influences and artistic inspirations to more personal and anecdotal exchanges. Gorey's letters, often penned on unconventional stationery and adorned with peculiar embellishments, offer glimpses into his reclusive life on Cape Cod, his fondness for ballet, and his enduring fascination with the ephemeral and the grotesque. Alter-Gilbert meticulously describes the physical characteristics of these letters, emphasizing the unique quality of Gorey’s handwriting, the types of paper and ink he favored, and the whimsical additions he frequently incorporated.
The narrative also touches upon the challenges and occasional frustrations inherent in corresponding with such an idiosyncratic individual. Gorey's unpredictable nature and his aversion to conventional social niceties occasionally led to misunderstandings and periods of silence, adding another layer of complexity to their communication. Despite these complexities, Alter-Gilbert underscores the genuine connection forged through their correspondence, portraying Gorey not as a mere literary figure, but as a complex individual with a unique perspective on the world. The article concludes with a poignant reflection on Gorey's legacy, highlighting the enduring impact of his artistic creations and the lingering resonance of their unique epistolary exchange. The author subtly conveys a sense of loss and nostalgia, emphasizing the enduring power of written correspondence to create lasting connections and provide intimate glimpses into the lives of extraordinary individuals.
Summary of Comments ( 1 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43178337
Hacker News users discuss the shared enjoyment of discovering hidden details in Gorey's intricate work, highlighting his meticulous cross-referencing and recurring motifs. Some commenters share personal anecdotes of corresponding with Gorey, describing his kindness and unique personality. Others delve into the deeper themes of his work, exploring the macabre humor and existential anxieties present beneath the whimsical surface. The thread also touches upon Gorey's influence on other artists and the enduring appeal of his distinct style. Several users recommend further resources for exploring Gorey's work, such as "Ascending Peculiarity: Edward Gorey on Edward Gorey." Overall, the comments reflect an appreciation for Gorey's artistry and the rich, interconnected world he created.
The Hacker News post titled "Curious Correspondence with Edward Gorey" links to an article about a collection of postcards written by Edward Gorey. The comments section on Hacker News contains a modest number of remarks, focusing on appreciation for Gorey's distinctive style and whimsical, darkly humorous sensibilities.
Several commenters express a general fondness for Gorey and his work. One user simply states "I love Gorey," reflecting a sentiment shared by others in the thread. Another remarks on Gorey's unique ability to evoke a specific, slightly unsettling atmosphere, describing it as "that peculiar Gorey atmosphere." This comment highlights the distinct and recognizable tone that permeates Gorey's creations.
Another commenter delves a little deeper into Gorey's artistic style, noting the intricate cross-hatching prevalent in his illustrations and linking it to a likely influence from the earlier artist John Tenniel, known for his illustrations in Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." This observation connects Gorey's work to a historical artistic lineage, suggesting a possible source of inspiration for his characteristic visual approach.
One user specifically mentions enjoying Gorey's animated introduction sequences for the PBS series "Mystery!", which introduced his work to a wider audience. This comment highlights a specific example of Gorey's work and its impact, demonstrating how his distinct style found a fitting platform in the visually engaging opening credits of the popular mystery series.
There's some discussion of the postcards themselves, with one commenter expressing a desire to see more of them. This indicates a general interest in the content linked in the original post, suggesting that the glimpses provided of Gorey's correspondence sparked curiosity and a desire to explore further.
Finally, one user mentions Gorey's ballet, "The Gilded Bat," revealing a lesser-known facet of his artistic output. This comment broadens the discussion beyond Gorey's illustrations and writing, showcasing the diverse range of his creative pursuits.
While the comments are not extensive, they provide insights into the appreciation for Gorey's work among the Hacker News community, highlighting his unique style, influences, and diverse creative endeavors. They demonstrate a shared fondness for the artist and a curiosity to learn more about him.