Jean Cocteau longed for Jean Marais. 1944.

Jean Cocteau (1889.1963)

Autographed letter signed to Jean Marais.

One page in-4°.

No location. March 24, 1944.

"What demoralized me was being sick and deprived of my sunshine, that is to say, of you."

Despite the wartime hours and the romantic separation, Cocteau was teeming with projects and working on his film Beauty and the Beast, in which Jean Marais would play the leading role.

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"My dear Jeannot, I finally think I've found a chance to write to you and that my letter will reach you. Paul [Morihien], who arrived this morning, looks fantastic and tells me you're in amazing shape. It has to be to cope in this strange city. I've been quite ill, but I'm starting to feel better, and since your bookcase is being installed, the Vaudables [Louis and Maggie Vaudable, owners of Maxim's] are lending me a room. I'm working on our film [Beauty and the Beast] there. I was dreading this work—I thought it would be monotonous—but Paul, to whom I read it, is absolutely delighted, and that gives me the courage to continue. You'll be returning to a city that no longer resembles the one you left."

Problems with electricity, gas, and other things. What was getting me down was being sick and deprived of my sunshine, that is to say, you. As soon as you arrive, I know I'll feel better and regain my optimism. Whatever happens, I think you'll stage Andromache. The films are more uncertain. Ploquin and Bresson want you for their film. They're waiting for you. Bresson will talk to you. I said I never influence you and that you do everything as you please. My dear Jeannot, I kiss you. Jean.