Montreal, 24 February 1961

Autograph letter to Marianne Ihlen ("My dear and lovely Marianne"), [postmarked Montreal] 24 February 1961.

One page, 265 x 188mm, aerogram (loss to lower margin, including Cohen’s signature, but addressed on verso in autograph by Cohen, including return address for "L.Cohen").

One of several letters from Cohen to remark on Marianne's own writing—“I have never read anything so simple and beautiful. It moved me very much, and brought to my mind again what I know so well, that you are a rare and lovely woman, and what a privilege it is to be close to you.” Optimistic regarding his work, he reports an encouraging meeting with his publisher about his novel—with the caveat “He was very drunk so I’m not quite sure what he was saying, but they’re very interested”—as well as positive publicity regarding his poems—“I’m giving a reading at McGill University next Thursday—should be fun. Had a poem on TV the other night, took part in a panel discussion at another college.”

He closes: "But this isn't what I want to tell you. I think of you every day, your beauty and your warmth. I long to be beside you."

By descent from Marianne Ihlen.