While it is well known that Will Durant was a prolific writer, penning over 6 million words for The Story of Civilization alone, what is less known is that he also was a prolific letter writer. His fan mail was extensive and every week would see him taking time out from his professional obligations to answer letters from friends, fans and colleagues.

We encourage visitors to Will Durant On-Line who may have some correspondence from Dr. Durant to share them with us by sending a copy to John Little’s attention via our e-mail address, along with some information on the background of the letter. Each month, Will Durant On-Line will feature a new installment of "Dear Will Durant" which will highlight some of his more interesting correspondence, from "letters to the editor" sections of newspapers, to answering general queries from fans, to acknowledging missives from Presidents and old friends.

-- J.L.

 

April 16, 1969

Dear Dr. Durant,

I have just finished reading your “Transition,” and, very simply, I loved it! If only this book (perhaps with an epilogue added by you) could be put into the hands of all our troubled youth of today – especially the college students who continue to riot – I feel sure it would be the salvation of many.

I have a question. You said many wonderful “big” things in your book, but these two “little” things stay with me:

1.) Men can love only what is weaker than themselves, and women only what is stronger.

2.) Villains are rare in life.

My question is, do you still believe in this today? And one “big” thing – do you believe again in another life after this one – in God? Please Mr. Durant, imposition though it is, I would very much like to know.

Sincerely – and respectfully, too,

Marjorie Souder (Mrs. M.D.)

P.S. It might amuse you to know that I bought your book – for 10 cents – at an auction held by the Riverside Art Alliance last month. I happen to have your ten-volume set of “The Story of Civilization” and I thought “Transition,” with its copyright of 1927 (one year before my birth), would be a fun addition. Little did I dream what a real treasure I had bought!

 

WILL DURANT REPLIES:

 

April 23, 1969

Dear Mrs. Souder:

I am not sure that “men can love only what is weaker than themselves,” but I believe that men who love all other men are stronger than all other men who do not. Love is a form of inclusion, and the stronger you are the more people you will include in your own ego. The weak exclude by hate, and become weaker.

Yes, I still think that villains are rare in life. They outnumber the good on the screen and in the press, because vice is news because it is exceptional.

The only immortality I believe in is the life-after-death of a mind or soul that has left great deeds or words behind it.

I believe in God not as a God of vengeance in the skies, but as the creative will and power of life in the world.

Sincerely,

Will Durant