THE LETTERS OF RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS

From R. Vaughan Williams,
The White Gates,
Westcott Road,
Dorking.

August 19 [1944]

Dear Mr Smith

I was much interested in your letter. I can imagine how hungry you must be for music “out there”.¹ I wonder if the struggle between the “classical” and the “popular” music will ever be resolved – I sometimes feel that we must eventually find some kind of music which will satisfy both sides.
As regards my new symphony I suppose it’s a good record – but records never satisfy me so I hope you will be able to hear it in “real life” or even over the wireless before you hear the record.
I enclose a photograph – It’s your own fault – you asked for it!
Yours sincerely

R. Vaughan Williams

1. Alan Smith was on military service in Italy.