Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1887

This letter to Philip Zilcken was penned in 1887 by William Ernest Henley, a man of letters in every sense of the word. Henley, like many artists of his time, navigated the currents of Victorian society, with its rigid class structures and cultural expectations. He wrote from 18 Camden Gardens, which speaks to the importance of place and social standing during this era. Henley's words reveal the nuanced social choreography of artistic circles, where status and recognition were crucial currencies. His gratitude for the correction of his “datch” – likely a Dutch reference – suggests the importance of cultural accuracy and the interconnectedness of the European art world. Henley experienced the emotional and physical trials of Victorian life: battling illness and social constraints, he carved out a space for his voice. The letter isn't just a note, but a reflection of identity and belonging within the artistic establishment.