Buzz
1. "Merely the reflection and outcome of human frailties."
Albert Einstein, widely regarded as the most renowned scientist in history and the mind behind the world's most famous equation, earned the 1921 Nobel Prize in Physics for his groundbreaking work in theoretical physics ("particularly for his discovery of the photoelectric effect law," as stated by the committee). His influence on modern science is immeasurable. However, in 1954, Einstein penned a handwritten letter to Jewish philosopher Eric B. Gutkind, delving into his thoughts on a completely different subject. Known as the "God Letter," this correspondence, where Einstein expresses his views on religion, is currently up for auction, with bids reaching $3 million. The auction concludes next week. Below is an excerpt, translated from German by Joan Stambaugh:
To me, the term God represents nothing more than the manifestation and consequence of human imperfections, while the Bible is a compilation of venerable yet primitive tales that remain somewhat naive. No amount of intricate interpretation can alter this perspective for me. These refined interpretations vary widely and often bear little resemblance to the original text. In my view, the Jewish faith, like all other religions, embodies the most juvenile superstitions. Although I proudly identify with the Jewish community and feel a profound connection to their mindset, I see no inherent superiority in them compared to others. Based on my observations, they are neither better nor worse than other groups, though their lack of power shields them from certain extreme vices. Beyond this, I find no evidence of them being 'chosen.' It troubles me that you assert a privileged status and defend it with dual barriers of pride—one as a man and another as a Jew. As a man, you seemingly exempt yourself from the causality that others accept, and as a Jew, you claim the exclusivity of monotheism. However, limited causality ceases to be causality, as Spinoza, with remarkable clarity, was among the first to recognize. Similarly, the animistic interpretations of natural religions are not invalidated by monopolization. Such barriers only foster self-deception and hinder our moral progress rather than advancing it. Having openly addressed our intellectual differences, I remain aware that we share common ground in our assessment of human behavior. What divides us are merely intellectual constructs and rationalizations, as Freud would describe them. Thus, I believe we could find mutual understanding if we focused on tangible matters. With gratitude and warm regards, Yours, A. Einstein
2. "Meeting your Teacher stands out as one of the most profound moments of my life."
Pearl S. Buck, an acclaimed author and humanitarian, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1938 for her vivid and epic portrayals of rural life in China and her exceptional biographical works. Her renowned novel, The Good Earth, topped U.S. bestseller lists in 1931 and 1932 and earned the Pulitzer Prize for the Novel in 1932. In late October 1936, Buck wrote a heartfelt letter to Helen Keller, another remarkable woman, who had recently lost her mentor and companion, Anne Sullivan.
Dear Helen Keller: Among the countless individuals thinking of you today with deep affection and sympathy, I am one. Meeting your Teacher remains one of the most significant experiences of my life—her presence radiated an undeniable greatness. The life you shared with her was extraordinary, and together, you achieved so much for humanity, offering immense strength and inspiration to us all. Few stories inspire as profoundly as the tale of your life with her. Please accept my utmost admiration and my unwavering belief in your ability to continue living triumphantly, as you always have. I understand the weight of this loss, though only partially, yet I have no doubts about your resilience. Consider me a steadfast friend, now more than ever, and do not hesitate to reach out if I can assist you in any way—it would be my pleasure. When the time feels right, I would be honored to visit you. Kindly convey my warm regards to dear Polly Thomson. Faithfully yours, Pearl S. Buck (Mrs. Richard J. Walsh) 480 Park Ave. New York City Wednesday
3. "Their efforts have inadvertently led to the risks we face today."
Bertrand Russell, one of the most brilliant minds of the 20th century, made significant contributions across multiple disciplines, including linguistics, mathematics, computer science, philosophy, and logic. His advocacy for nuclear disarmament and anti-war efforts also cemented his legacy as a leading humanitarian. In 1950, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his diverse and impactful writings that championed humanitarian ideals and intellectual freedom. In a letter to fellow Nobel laureate Albert Einstein, Russell proposed a collaborative effort to combat nuclear proliferation, which later evolved into the Russell-Einstein Manifesto.
5 April, 1955. 41, Queen's Road, Richmond, Surrey. Dear Einstein, I have been contemplating and discussing with others the most effective way to channel the widespread anti-war sentiment among scientists. I believe the initial step should be a declaration by highly respected figures, encompassing both communists and anti-communists, from the East and West, highlighting the catastrophic consequences of war. I have attached a draft of this statement and sincerely hope you will agree to sign it. I have also included a list of individuals I am inviting to sign. If we gather enough signatures, the next step would be to convene an international scientific congress, prompted by the signatories, to adopt a resolution based on the enclosed draft. This approach, I believe, will help alert both governments and the public to the gravity of the situation. At this stage, I think it is best to involve only scientists, as they bear a unique responsibility due to their work inadvertently contributing to the current dangers. Expanding the scope to include other fields, such as Arnold Toynbee, whom you mentioned, would complicate efforts to avoid political entanglements. Yours sincerely, (Signed, 'Bertrand Russell')
Einstein's reply was concise:
Dear Bertrand Russell, Thank you for your letter dated April 5. I am pleased to sign your well-crafted statement and support your selection of potential signatories. With warm regards, A. Einstein.
This marked the final letter he composed. He passed away 13 days later, on April 18. The official Manifesto was published on July 9, 1955.
4. "Should our paths cross elsewhere, I will be sure to seek you out."
Winston Churchill received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for his exceptional skill in historical and biographical writing, as well as his powerful speeches advocating for noble human values. He remains the only British Prime Minister to have been honored with this award. (Later, in 1963, he also became the first Honorary Citizen of the United States.) In July 1915, long before these accolades, a 40-year-old Churchill penned a heartfelt letter to his wife, Clementine, sealing it with instructions to deliver it only upon his death. Shortly after, he rejoined the Army.
Do not mourn me excessively. I am a soul assured of my purpose. Death is merely an event, not the most significant occurrence in our existence. Overall, especially since meeting you, my dearest, I have found happiness, and you have shown me the profound nobility of a woman's heart. If there is an afterlife, I will eagerly await you. Until then, embrace life, cherish our children, and honor my memory. May God bless you. Farewell. W.
A quarter-century later, Churchill would become Prime Minister, and the letter would fade into obscurity.
5. "It's astonishingly satisfying to instruct others on how to write."
Ernest Hemingway was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954 after enduring numerous injuries and near-death experiences. He chose not to attend the ceremony in Stockholm, instead sending a brief speech to be delivered on his behalf. (You can listen to it here, narrated by John C. Cabot, the U.S. Ambassador to Sweden.) Two decades earlier, Hemingway was crafting much lengthier correspondence, such as this letter to his close friend and confidant, F. Scott Fitzgerald. Shortly after the release of Tender Is the Night, Fitzgerald sought Hemingway's opinion on the novel. Hemingway's response, while critical, is filled with invaluable insights for aspiring writers. (It's worth noting that Hemingway occasionally struggled with spelling and homonyms.)
(Transcript provided by Letters of Note)
Key West 28 May 1934 Dear Scott: I had mixed feelings about it. It began brilliantly with that vivid portrayal of Sara and Gerald (unfortunately, Dos took it with him, so I can't reference it directly. If I make any errors, forgive me). Then you started altering them, giving them backgrounds they didn’t have, transforming them into different people—and you can’t do that, Scott. When you write about real individuals, you must stay true to their origins and actions. You can’t assign them different parents or make them behave unnaturally. Whether it’s you, me, Zelda, Pauline, Hadley, Sara, or Gerald, you have to keep them consistent and true to their nature. You can’t turn one into another. Invention is crucial, but it must align with reality. At our best, we’re supposed to create—but create so authentically that it feels inevitable. You took liberties with people’s lives, crafting not characters but fabricated case histories. You, with your immense talent, can write better than anyone. But you compromised, and you didn’t need to. You could write an incredible book about Gerald and Sara if you truly understood them, and they wouldn’t mind as long as it was honest. There were moments of brilliance, and no one writes as compellingly as you do. But you cut corners in this one, and it wasn’t necessary. First, I’ve always said you struggle with thinking. Fine, let’s say you can think. But even if you couldn’t, you should write from what you know and keep characters’ backgrounds accurate. Second, you’ve stopped listening—except to answers that suit your narrative. You had great material that didn’t need embellishment. That’s what drains a writer—not listening. It all comes from observing and listening. You see well, but you’ve stopped hearing. It’s better than I’m making it sound, but not as good as you’re capable of. You can study strategy, economics, and psychology, but none of it matters once you’re writing. We’re like flawed acrobats, but we make incredible leaps. Others won’t even jump. For God’s sake, write without worrying about critics or whether it’ll be a masterpiece. I write one page of brilliance to ninety-one pages of garbage. I try to discard the garbage. You feel pressured to publish subpar work to make a living. Fine, but if you write enough and as well as you can, the masterpiece will emerge. You can’t force it. Ignore the critics who nearly ruined you. Write honestly, and let the audience judge. Forget your personal struggles. We all start with challenges, and you need to endure pain to write meaningfully. But when you feel that pain, use it—don’t distort it. Be as precise as a scientist, but don’t overvalue your experiences. By now, you might want to shut me up. It’s easy to tell others how to write, live, or die. I’d like to talk with you sober. In New York, you were too drunk for us to connect. You’re not a tragic figure, and neither am I. We’re writers, and our job is to write. You needed discipline, but you married someone who competed with and undermined your work. It’s not that simple, but I always thought Zelda was unstable, and your love for her complicated things. You’re a drinker, like Joyce and many great writers. But good writers always bounce back. You’re twice as good now as you were during your ‘peak.’ I didn’t think much of Gatsby back then. You can write twice as well now. Just write truthfully and don’t worry about the outcome. Keep writing. I care about you and would love to talk sometime. We’ve had great conversations. Remember the guy we visited in Neuilly? He was here this winter—Canby Chambers. Dos is doing well now, though he was very ill last year. How are Scotty and Zelda? Pauline sends her love. We’re all fine. She’s heading to Piggott for a few weeks with Patrick, then bringing Bumby back. We have a great boat. I’m working on a challenging long story. Always your friend, Ernest [Written on envelope: What about The Sun Also Rises and the movies? Any chance? I didn’t mention the good parts. You know how good they are. You’re right about the story collection. I wanted to wait for more. That last Cosmopolitan story would have strengthened it.]
6. "I am deeply shocked and overwhelmed with sorrow."
Martin Luther King, Jr. was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his relentless fight against racial injustice using nonviolent means. He maintained regular correspondence with President John F. Kennedy and later shared in his autobiography that he had cast his vote for JFK in 1960, though he never publicly endorsed him. Upon hearing of Kennedy's assassination, King promptly sent a heartfelt letter of condolence.
For those interested in exploring the extensive correspondence between MLK and the president, the King Center archives offer access to thousands of documents, including original notes from speeches and sermons.
7. "Bippity bippity bippity, off into the bushes."
Theodore Roosevelt is often remembered for his dynamic personality—energetic, bold, and direct. However, his tender side, particularly with his beloved son Quentin, is less frequently highlighted. Two years before receiving the 1906 Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the end of the Russo-Japanese War, Roosevelt was sketching rabbits and penning affectionate letters to his 6-year-old, whom he fondly called "Quenty-Quee."
Theodore Roosevelt Center
Numerous letters penned by Teddy were compiled in the 1919 publication Theodore Roosevelt's Letters to His Children. He stands as one of only three U.S. Presidents to receive the Nobel Peace Prize while still serving in office, alongside Woodrow Wilson and Barack Obama.
8. "He regrets that he cannot accept your gracious invitation."
Following the groundbreaking publication of the DNA double-helix model by Frances Crick and James Watson in 1953, and particularly after they were jointly awarded the 1962 Nobel Prize in Medicine (with Maurice Wilkins), the duo faced an overwhelming influx of requests. Crick, true to his scientific nature, devised a set of pre-written response cards, which he used throughout the 1960s to reply to the numerous inquiries he received. These responses accurately mirrored the most common requests.
The Crick Foundation, via io9
9. "One of the most significant threats to humanity."
Linus Pauling remains the sole individual to have been awarded two unshared Nobel Prizes, one in Chemistry in 1954 and another in Peace in 1962. As a pioneer in quantum chemistry and molecular biology, and a passionate advocate against war as a solution to global conflicts, it’s no surprise that, just months before the Cuban Missile Crisis, Pauling sent a strongly-worded letter to President Kennedy concerning nuclear weapons testing:
1 March 1962 Night Letters Durham, NC President John F. Kennedy, White House: Will you issue an order that will mark you as one of history’s most immoral figures and a grave threat to humanity? In a letter to the New York Times, I argue that nuclear tests replicating the Soviet Union’s 1961 tests would severely harm over 20 million unborn children, leading to severe physical or mental defects, stillbirths, and deaths in infancy and childhood due to radioactive fallout and carbon-14. Will you commit this heinous act, matching the immorality of Soviet leaders, merely to bolster the United States’ already dominant position in nuclear weapons technology? (Signed) Linus Pauling --- To Dr. Jerome Wiesner, Mr. McGeorge Bundy, Dr. Glenn Seaborg I have sent the following telegram to President Kennedy. (quote it). Linus Pauling
10. "It deeply troubles me that these peculiar, underhanded distortions are attributed to me."
In 1943, Alfred Hitchcock approached John Steinbeck to write a screenplay. Steinbeck, recently returned from war with shrapnel injuries, was eager to dive into a new project. He quickly completed the first draft of Lifeboat, handed it over to Hitchcock and his team, and moved on to his next endeavor. However, when the film was released in January 1944, Steinbeck was dismayed by the alterations made to his script. His letter to 20th Century Fox captures his frustration perfectly:
New York January 10, 1944 Dear Sirs: I recently viewed the film Lifeboat, directed by Alfred Hitchcock and credited as written by me. While the film has many commendable qualities, I must raise a few concerns. Although I did write a script for Lifeboat, it did not include any derogatory remarks about organized labor or a stereotypical comedic portrayal of a Black character. Instead, my script featured a knowledgeable and reflective seaman who acted with realism and purpose. Additionally, the character of the Black individual was one of dignity, depth, and personality, not the typical caricature. Given that the film bears my name, it is deeply troubling that these misleading and inappropriate elements are associated with me. John Steinbeck
A month later, Steinbeck wrote to his agent, demanding that his name be completely removed from the film's credits. His request was ultimately disregarded.
11. "May the Grand Master live long."
Letters of Note Though not a Nobel laureate himself, Alfred Nobel, the founder of the Nobel Prizes, deserves recognition. Here is a translated excerpt from a telegram he sent to Victor Hugo in 1885, celebrating the author's 85th birthday:
Victor Hugo Paris May the Grand Master live long, continuing to inspire the world and propagate his vision of universal compassion. A. Nobel
