Letter from Freud to Ludwig Binswanger, November 3, 1912

3 November 1912
Vienna IX, Berggasse 19

79F

Prof. Dr. Freud

Dear Dr. Binswanger,

Here is the information you asked for. The reason for the parting of the ways with Stekel was not scientific but his personal arrogance.1 He refused to accept contributions from a member2 who had seriously offended him some time ago, on the grounds that the Zentralblatt was ‘his paper’. When I pointed out that it was, after all, the official journal of the Association and I myself something like its editor, he refused to back down. I then asked the publisher what he would do in case of a difference between me and Stekel and when I received no clear-cut reply and also realised that there were secret agreements between Bergmann and Stekel, which explained his presumption, I withdrew and left the paper to him. The split was ostensibly a friendly one; but with someone of his character you can imagine how long this position will last. I am very glad about it all, however; he was always a trial and lately quite insufferable — his petty jealousies knew no bounds and his exaggerated opinion of himself verged on the grotesque.

I immediately began negotiations to establish a new journal, and believe that Ferenczi,3 one of our best people, can probably be persuaded to become the editor. I shall, of course, take all my friends with me. You will shortly be asked in a circular to remove your name from the Zentralblatt and to lend it to our new journal. Needless to say you would have my full support if you took the first step even earlier.4

I have received all your letters. I did not reply to your question because it was not pressing. Your work5 will make an impact wherever it appears. I would prefer to have it in one of our journals, but much will depend on the length it attains.

I am overwhelmed with work. With kindest regards to you and your wife,

Yours ever,
Freud