I always felt that the great high privilege, relief and comfort of friendship was that one had to explain nothing

I always felt that the great high privilege, relief and comfort of friendship was that one had to explain nothing

Katherine Mansfield, a renowned New Zealand writer known for her modernist short stories, often explored themes of human relationships and the complexities of human emotions in her works. One of the recurring themes in her writing is the idea of friendship and the deep connection that can exist between individuals. In one of her letters, Mansfield wrote, “I always felt that the great high privilege, relief and comfort of friendship was that one had to explain nothing.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of true friendship as Mansfield saw it.

For Mansfield, friendship was not just about shared experiences or common interests, but about a profound understanding and acceptance of one another. In a world where people are often judged and misunderstood, Mansfield believed that true friendship offered a sanctuary where one could be oneself without fear of judgment or rejection. The idea that one did not have to explain anything to a true friend speaks to the deep level of trust and intimacy that can exist in such relationships.

Mansfield’s own life was marked by a series of close friendships that had a significant impact on her work and personal development. From her tumultuous relationship with fellow writer Virginia Woolf to her close bond with her mentor, the writer and critic John Middleton Murry, Mansfield understood the power of friendship to shape and enrich one’s life. In her stories, she often explored the dynamics of friendship, portraying the complexities and nuances of human relationships with sensitivity and insight.