Frank [Cadogan Cowper], 38 Barrow Hill Road, St. John's Wood, to his mother

RA Collection: Archive

Reference code

COW/2/13

Title

Frank [Cadogan Cowper], 38 Barrow Hill Road, St. John's Wood, to his mother

Date

30 May 1906

Level

Item

Extent & medium

3 pieces

Content Description

In response to her letter, he discusses his opinions on the nature of female consciousness. He believes women only capable of "an indefinite, sub-conscious, nebulous sort of feeling" at least until the age of 45 and that for this reason they would never excel at any art.

He does not agree with new ways of behaving between the sexes. A woman feels disgust for a man if he doesn't display his understanding of being her "master". American cities are ruined by this supposed equality between the sexes. The next step would be degenerousy. He does not agree with her that women are only inferior because history has treated them so. He is pleased to learn that his father held similar views.

Two people have written to him wanting Fry's little picture.