Trug und Schein: A Correspondence
A Critical Engagement with Everyday Life in the Second World War
[380825–1‑1]
L., on August 25, 1938
Dear Miss [Laube]!
I very much enjoyed your pictures. I would like to keep all of them. The photograph details are well selected, only one image has too much empty sky. The positions are invariably lively—women always understand better how to place themselves in the right light!—and if I did not know for whom you sat laughing so gracefully as a model, I would actually be jealous.
Continue reading “25. August 1938”[380809–2‑1]
O., on August 9, 1938
Dear Herr [Nordhoff]!
Accompanied by your best wishes for a new beginning, I entered my workplace again on Monday. I must say it was easy for me to begin a whole new year. At first the new surroundings had a pleasant affect on me. We girls are now by ourselves in a bright, airy room with seven large windows. There are containers in each of the windows with plants of all kinds, which we tend to ourselves. Yes, we intend to build our own small perfect idyll under the motto: “utmost cleanliness.” Our male colleagues shall be in awe as soon as they enter. It’s all good and well, the only question is whether everyone will stick to this resolution. The best part is that I have the whole room at my back; when I look up, I look right out into the garden. When autumn comes and it becomes more and more colorful outside until the trees are naked and bald, it won’t be so lonely. I have a clear view and can always see the train. You are not allowed to think that I am lazy. I have to motivate myself with something, must watch, otherwise I won’t be able to stand it. Some sit there and stare at the machine all of the time, I believe what little is left of my spirit would completely whither.
Continue reading “09. August 1938”