SCHWEITZER ALBERT Two letters each to NBC Music Supervisor W

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"MUSIC IS THE UNFATHOMABLE, MYSTERIOUS LANGUAGE" SCHWEITZER, ALBERT. Two letters, each to NBC Music Supervisor Walter Koons, in French and German: Autograph Letter Signed * Autograph Note Signed. The letter, responding to Koons's question, "What is Music?" The note, apologizing "for not having answered your question. I am concentrating entirely on my philosophical work . . ." Together 5 pages, oblong 8vo and 4to; few closed separations at folds. Lambarene, 1938

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17 February 1938: apologizing for not writing sooner, explaining what he has been doing and expressing interest in Koons' work, adding, "here is an attempt at determining by thought the nature of music. But as the German language is much better for this undertaking, I give my definitions in German. . . ." Continuing on a separate sheet, in German: "Music is the unfathomable, mysterious language given to human beings in various measure. Those who have it at their command are able by means of it to bring to expression states of soul and soul visions . . . in a direct manner. . . ."
with--Retained copy of letter from Koons to Schweitzer, thanking him for his response, assuring him it was not too late and explaining how his--to date unpublished--book is organized. 5 May 1938 Letters to Koons from Schweitzer's assistant, Lillian Russell.