Unaddressed Letters cover art

Unaddressed Letters

Unaddressed Letters

Written by: Anonymous Frank Athelstane Swettenham
Listen for free

“I had a friend who loved me;” but he has gone, and the “great gulf” is between us. After his death, I received a packet of manuscript with these few words:—“What I have written may appeal to you because of our friendship, and because, when you come to read them, you will seek to grasp, in these apparent confidences, an inner meaning that to the end will elude you. If you think others, not the many but the few, might find here any answer to their unuttered questionings, any fellowship of sympathy in those experiences which are the milestones of our lives, then use the letters as you will, but without my name. I shall have gone, and the knowledge of my name would make no one either wiser or happier.” The writer was, by trade, a diplomatist; by inclination, a sportsman with literary and artistic tastes; by force of circumstances he was a student of many characters, and in some sense a cynic. He was also a traveler—not a great traveler, but he knew a good deal of Europe, a little of America, much of India and the further East. He spent some time in this neighborhood, and was much interested in the country and its people. There is an Eastern atmosphere about many of the letters, and he made no secret of the fact that he was fascinated by the glamour of the lands of sunshine. He died very suddenly by misadventure, and, even to me, his packet of letters came rather as a revelation. - Summary by Frank Athelstane SwettenhamCopyright Early Modern Genre Art Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • Story of My Boyhood and Youth-John Muir

    Story of My Boyhood and Youth-John Muir
    Aug 10 2026
    “I had a friend who loved me;” but he has gone, and the “great gulf” is between us. After his death, I received a packet of manuscript with these few words:—“What I have written may appeal to you because of our friendship, and because, when you come to read them, you will seek to grasp, in these apparent confidences, an inner meaning that to the end will elude you. If you think others, not the many but the few, might find here any answer to their unuttered questionings, any fellowship of sympathy in those experiences which are the milestones of our lives, then use the letters as you will, but without my name. I shall have gone, and the knowledge of my name would make no one either wiser or happier.” The writer was, by trade, a diplomatist; by inclination, a sportsman with literary and artistic tastes; by force of circumstances he was a student of many characters, and in some sense a cynic. He was also a traveler—not a great traveler, but he knew a good deal of Europe, a little of America, much of India and the further East. He spent some time in this neighborhood, and was much interested in the country and its people. There is an Eastern atmosphere about many of the letters, and he made no secret of the fact that he was fascinated by the glamour of the lands of sunshine. He died very suddenly by misadventure, and, even to me, his packet of letters came rather as a revelation. - Summary by Frank Athelstane Swettenham
    Show More Show Less
    5 hrs and 26 mins
  • John Donne's Satires-John Donne

    John Donne's Satires-John Donne
    Aug 9 2026
    John Donne's Satires presents a sharp and insightful exploration of human nature, morality, and the complexities of faith through the lens of satirical poetry. This collection captures the essence of Donne's wit and intellect, offering listeners a profound commentary on the struggles of the human condition. The themes of introspection and societal critique resonate deeply, encouraging reflection on our own moral dilemmas and the world around us. As relevant today as it was in the 17th century, Donne's work invites audiences to engage with timeless questions about existence, integrity, and the nature of belief, making it a compelling listen for those seeking both entertainment and enlightenment.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 23 mins
  • Unaddressed Letters - Anonymous, Frank Athelstane Swettenham

    Unaddressed Letters - Anonymous, Frank Athelstane Swettenham
    Aug 1 2026
    Unaddressed Letters by Anonymous, Frank Athelstane Swettenham invites listeners into a world of introspection and unspoken thoughts, exploring the profound impact of letters never sent. This collection reflects on the complexities of communication and the emotions that linger in the silence between words. The themes of longing, regret, and the desire for connection resonate deeply, making it a timeless exploration of the human experience. As listeners navigate these unaddressed sentiments, they may find reflections of their own lives, prompting a deeper understanding of the relationships that shape us. This work remains relevant today, reminding us of the power of expression and the weight of what remains unspoken.
    Show More Show Less
    7 hrs and 10 mins
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_t1
No reviews yet