The Complete Winchester Letters

The collection presents the early letters of Lionel Johnson, a prominent Decadent poet, revealing a more personal side of him as a compassionate individual eager to support others. Edited by his friend Frank Russell, the letters aim to showcase the "true Lionel" beyond his later literary persona. However, the anonymization of correspondents raises questions about what was omitted and whether Russell sought to hide certain elements of their friendship. This exploration delves into the complexities of Johnson's character and the nuances of his relationships.