40. Einstein, Albert. Autograph letter signed (“Papa”), 1.5 pages (8.5 x 11 in.; 216 x 279 mm.), front and back, in German, no place or date, written to his son Eduard (nicknamed “Tetel” for petit) while he was attending medical school in Zurich. Usual folds with minor soiling on edges.

Einstein gives his opinion of Sigmund Freud after his son receives the psychoanalyst’s lectures from Vienna.

Einstein writes in part:
Dear, Tetel. I hope you’ve received Freud’s lectures from Vienna. I’ve read most of them myself in the past. They lead me to admire the author, but not quite convince me of the accuracy of his theories. But since then, based on personal experiences, these convictions have slowly grown in me, at least in terms of his main theses…

Einstein goes on to wax philosophical:
…I would have written sooner, but my work is not giving me a break. Even if you tell yourself that the strife of the individual is ridiculously minor, such an insight does still not defeat the passion with which we pursue our interests and that’s a good thing. Because the personal illusions that bring warmth and joy into your life when you are young, fall apart later and life would be completely bleak if the work and the passion for discovery weren’t there.

Einstein mentions that he’s reading Schiller’s poems and offers his critique
:…There’s a certain stiltedness about them but the strength of expression and richness of thought captures the reader. I’m happy that I’m reading it…

Speaking of Albert:…He’s been travelling. I hope he follows my advice and keeps a journal. I don’t really have that much hope because in terms or writing and speaking, he’s more or less chronically constipated. Love, Papa.

Tete, who would soon succumb to schizophrenia, so admired Freud that he hung his portrait on his bedroom wall – and whether Einstein, in writing “kindly” about Freud, was placating his son or admitting a truth, is open to analysis.
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