Diaries and letters [of] Harold Nicolson,

by Harold Nicolson

Book by Nicolson, Harold George

Genres: History, Diary, Nonfiction

Paperback

First published June 1, 1966

About the author

Sir Harold George Nicolson KCVO CMG was an English diplomat, author, diarist and politician. He was the husband of writer Vita Sackville-West, their unusual relationship being described in their son's book, Portrait of a Marriage.

Reviews

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

His letters to his wife were certainly more entertaining, but the diaries were more revealing. He cared so much about Vita's opinion and wanted to impress her, so his letters reflected that. His diaries express some frustrations and self doubt that he wouldn't tell her about. For instance, the few years after he quit diplomacy (mostly for her) were much more miserable for him than he told anyone. He thought he was washed up and involved in a dirty buisness (journalism). I was also really interested by his thoughts about some famous people he interacted with regularly- Balfour and Curzon come off vividly (if not entirely favorably), for example. The time where he meets the future Queen Mum (then Duchess of York) and forgets who she is is great, as is the time where he hangs out with Proust. Recommended highly to anyone interested in the Nicolsons, early 20th century British politics or diplomacy.

[Bruce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicolson's brilliant and perceptive mind mix with the strong prejudices of his class and generation. He served in public life at some key moments in British history, and the volume (#2) that covers the World War II years does an exceptional job of conveying the emotions of that era as events unfolded. At times I'm in awe, at times I want to shake him.

[Henrik Persson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A mirror of the time it was written. Splendid! A little bit more gossip, and it would have been 5 stars.

[Annez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicolson is a fascinating guide through the early to mid-20th century.

[Elisa Halvegård]

Splendid