Strangers Who Never Met

Unusual story about Tchaikovsky and Nadezhda von Meck

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Nadezhda von Meck was one of only few woman known in Tchaikovsky’s life.

She was a wealthy widow who was supporting musicians and musical establishments.

Von Meck completely retired from public life after her husband's death. However, she never stopped attending concerts put on by the Russian Musical Society, sitting alone in the balcony incognito.

Her admiration for Tchaikovsky's work led her to start a mail correspondence with him that lasted for over 13 years, during which they shared many intimate moments and she financially supported him.

As a result of this financial support in the form of annual allowance, he was able to quit his day job in order to concentrate fully on his passion for music.

As a matter of fact, Tchaikovsky described her as "his best friend".

Despite their close connection, their friendship was also very unusual - they agreed not to meet each other, and only keep communication through letters.

Although they never officially met, they reportedly saw each other occasionally on their daily walks. However, even then, they did not communicate. Not even said hello to each other.

There were more than 1200 letters written between Nadezhda and Tchaikovsky during their mail friendship. Despite her obvious feelings for him, Nadezhda probably knew about his homosexuality and was never considering pursuing it. As a result, Tchaikovsky felt comfortable corresponding with her – a woman who wasn't seeking his heart. Over time, the two became very close.

Their correspondence unexpectedly ended in 1890 when widow von Meck, regretfully and without revealing reasons, stopped her financial support to Tchaikovsky. This left him emotionally upset when his letters were constantly returned to him unopened.

After that, three years later, they died only few months apart.

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