In an age dominated by digital communication, there is a surprising resurgence in the art of writing love letters. From the passionate pleas of historical figures like Oscar Wilde and Catherine Howard to the heartfelt missives of everyday people, the “Love Letters” exhibition at the National Archives in the UK showcases the enduring power of putting pen to paper.
The display features a diverse array of emotional correspondence spanning the last 500 years, providing a captivating glimpse into the human experience. Curator Victoria Iglikowski-Broad notes that these handwritten letters hold a unique connection that digital interactions simply cannot replicate. “A letter feels like it’s got more thought and time behind it than our digital interactions,” she explains. “In the modern age, sitting down and writing means a huge amount. It means you’re taking time and putting in effort. It’s really important.”
While some of the letters on display, such as the Kray twins’ father’s plea for his sons, offer a startling insight into past societal norms, many demonstrate the timeless struggles of love and loss that continue to resonate today. John Cairncross’s wistful letter to his ex-girlfriend, written during World War II, echoes the regrets and missed opportunities that plague us all, with the added poignancy of his closing poem.
The exhibition’s diverse collection underscores the universality of the human experience, as Iglikowski-Broad observes: “Something might be written in a different type of language or fancy handwriting, but, actually, the sentiments that are in there endure. There’s this real kind of universality in the feelings that are as relevant 500 years ago as they are today.”
While the digital age has seen a decline in traditional letter-writing, particularly in countries like Denmark, the UK has experienced a resurgence in the practice, with nearly half of Britons reporting that receiving post helped them through the COVID-19 lockdowns. The therapeutic benefits of letter-writing, such as reduced shame and anxiety, have also been well-documented.
Events like “Letters Live,” which feature A-list performers reading from the “Letters of Note” series, further demonstrate the public’s enduring fascination with this timeless form of communication. As Iglikowski-Broad asserts, “A written letter is incredibly special. It’s certainly something to really value, keep, and hold on to.”
In a world increasingly dominated by screens and instant messaging, the “Love Letters” exhibition serves as a poignant reminder of the power and poignancy of the handwritten word, a testament to the enduring human need for meaningful, tangible connections.