A Parallel Tale of Twin Souls Yearning to Be One
The iconic modern couple, John Lennon and Yoko Ono, believed they were reincarnations of another iconic couple: Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
For the general public of 150 to 50 years ago, the Brownings came to represent particularly for the middle class, especially for women a modern model of a union based not on beauty or wealth but on equality and mutual respect. Their relationship was even cited as exceptional by literati and artists, who generally didn't place much faith in the institution of marriage.
Their secret? Robert Browning celebrated his wife's genius and never felt threatened by her popularity. She, in turn, recognized him as the greater poet and never tired of proclaiming his talent. In sum, they respected and rejoiced in each other's achievements.
Alas, there have been almost no such exemplary artistic marriages since except for that of John Lennon and Yoko Ono.
This is the strange, half-forgotten tale of "limitless undying love" that linked and enhanced the legends of both couples.
