As a family, we regarded her genius as natural, normal. Now I realize that geniuses are rare. They are not the same as other people, and it would have been impossible even to try inflicting an ordinary way of life upon her. She was driven by something from deep within her, and we had no option but to be borne along by her current.
Genius demands an unusual and specific environment in which to flourish, which, in itself requires genius. Mum's intuitive understanding and thorough musical training enabled her to provide the background Jackie needed. Dad, trusting Mum implicitly, provided the home and financial support.
Her genius made her vulnerable and this, in turn, induced the desire to protect her. Many men wanted to take care of her and fell in love with her golden looks, her wicked humor and the magnetism of her personality. As her fame spread, it seemed as if half the world wanted to look after her. She was idolized, both for herself and her gift. Her playing aroused ardor, indeed ecstasy. And the emotional response to her tragedy was equally fervent. Everyone longed to support her through her terrible illness.
"Hilary and Jackie: The True Story of Two Sisters Who Shared a Passion, a Madness and a Man" by Hilary and Piers du Pré
ReplyDeleteJacqueline du Pré (26 January 1945 – 19 October 1987) was a British cellist, acknowledged as one of the greatest players of the instrument. She is particularly associated with Elgar's Cello Concerto in E Minor; her interpretation of that work has been described as "definitive" and "legendary".
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