Hemingway’s Hopeful Note to Sister Immaculata Days Before Suicide

In a poignant exploration of literary history, a recent event has shed light on an inscription from Ernest Hemingway, penned shortly before his tragic death. This note, described as a hopeful message to Sister Immaculata, offers a glimpse into Hemingway’s state of mind in his final days.

Hemingway’s Enduring Legacy

Author Jim DeBerg, who previously chronicled Hemingway’s travels in “Traveling the World With Hemingway,” is currently engaged in a project titled “Wrestling With Demons.” DeBerg’s deep dive into Hemingway’s life raises important questions about the author’s perspective as he faced the end of his life.

Significant Findings

DeBerg finds the note’s optimistic tone unsettling. He questions whether Hemingway truly believed he could write again after undergoing numerous electroshock treatments. Was this message a facade meant to convince the medical professionals at the Mayo Clinic of his recovery?

Final Days at Mayo Clinic

• Hemingway was discharged from the Mayo Clinic on June 26, 1961.
• His doctor, Dr. Howard Rome, believed Hemingway had sufficiently recovered from depression.
• Only six days later, Hemingway took his own life.

DeBerg also recalls a significant moment from his September visit to the Nobel Prize Museum. Noticing the absence of Hemingway artifacts, he prompted the Franciscans to contribute the insightful book. Their leadership council agreed, and the book was presented to DeBerg in November at the Franciscan motherhouse in Rochester, Minnesota.

Event in Sweden

On a notable occasion in Sweden, DeBerg is set to discuss the inscription’s profound significance. During the ceremony, professional actor Isa Aouifia will read an excerpt from Hemingway’s iconic work, “The Old Man and the Sea.”

A Profound Reflection

Henrik Larsson of the museum remarked that the inscription encapsulates Hemingway’s resilience. It reflects a man at the twilight of his life, still hopeful and yearning to create one last story. This moment in literary history is further enriched by the compassion of the Franciscan Sisters, highlighting the enduring legacy of a troubled genius.