Introduction

Guest Editors, Special Section

EVA LESTER 1922-2008

Devotion and determination are words that capture the essence of Dr. Eva Lester. The editors of this special section of the Canadian journal of Psychoanalysis knew her in different ways and for different lengths of time. Deborah Zack knew her as a teacher, a hospital colleague of 25 years, and as an analyst; Mary Kay O'Neil as an office partner, Institute colleague, and friend for a dozen years. Yet we readily agreed that Eva's devotion was quietly, deeply genuine and her determination was strongly focused on being an excellent psychoanalyst. These qualities, present throughout her life, were notably evident in her final years. Despite the heart-wrenching loss of her beloved husband, Murray, and failing physical and cognitive health, she worked as an analyst until she was no longer able. Thereafter, Eva still came to her office to read, in her mother tongue, the Greek myths and, in English and French, the psychoanalytic literature. Her office and all it represented to her as a psychoanalyst sustained her until her final illness. Bedridden for several months before her death and able to be alert for only short periods, she still recognized and graciously received visitors. There was no doubt that Eva, the wife, mother, friend, and colleague remained also until the very end Dr. Eva Lester, the committed and valued psychoanalyst.

Three papers in this section, written by Malkah Notman, Ana-Maria Rizzuto, and Deborah Zack, speak eloquently about Lester's contributions to psychoanalysis. Their words, which make evident her keen mind, her love of her profession, and her capacity for friendship, also highlight and preserve Eva Lester's psychoanalytic legacy. Other co-authors and editors, colleagues, and candidates offered words for this introduction that speak to the multiple facets of this first Canadian-trained woman to become a