Objects

A letter from the father to his son, written in the Warsaw Ghetto.

On the reverse, written in Leon Perl's hand, too, is Maria Karczmarek's address, which was also previously given as the return address for the correspondence. Karczmarek probably lived not far from his former flat: Bahnhofstraße, Dworcowa Street comprised part of 3 Maja Avenue and a section of Jerozolimskie Avenue (west of Bracka Street). In later correspondence, however, the earlier name, 3 Maja Street (meaning it could probably be used interchangeably), is also used, with the number 18; the second flat?

Letter content (spelling partially updated):

My Dear! Thanks for the pasta, sugar and Maggi. I haven't had the pasta yet, but Jadzia had some, and she was delighted. We've all had a go at the chocolate you sent us. The frost is mighty, up to 20 degrees below zero today, with beautiful sunny weather. The flat is warm, owing to our supply of coal and wood. In addition, the flat is warm on its own. I walk around in your winter coat; it's survived through so many winters and has now come in handy. A little too bulky for me, perhaps, but warm. Besides, one lives in an atmosphere of monotony and boredom. Not much's going on. Mother hardly comes out, though we coax her to take a walk to get some air and exercise. She doesn't really listen to us, though. Warm hugs and kisses.

Leon    29/I 1942