Original MS letter from James Joyce to Paul Ruggiero, 18 November 1938

Paul Ruggiero was a close friend of Joyce’s in Zurich. The letter reads “Dear Ruggiero, I have found the record. It is called ‘Un Reve’ and the house is full of its melody. I also bought one for you and it will be sent to you next Wednesday. You will be delighted with it. Now there is something else I wanted to tell you. I have finished my book. Next Thursday, on the American Thanksgiving day, some friends are giving a little supper for me. I should like to sing your song in French and also in Greek. Could you let me have the words in time, clearly written out, with a translation? Many thanks at all events. By the way, the words are different in the French text. There is nothing about the sea in it, no laughter and no blonde, but great sadness. My wife cried when she was listening to it. What the deuce is there in music, and above all singing, that moves us so deeply? Hurray! I have finished this blasted book”.