This is a collection of messages, talks and answers from The Mother which relate to Auroville. It is not exhaustive but fairly complete.
Continue readingThe Mother on Auroville – a book published in 1977
Mother on Matrimandir – 3
Part 3
M A T R I M A N D I R
* * *
MAY 1970
24 MAY 1970
Written in a notebook
Original language: French
First publication: En Route On the Way
Source: On the way, p.140; AMW, p.325
Shyam Sunder: For the last three days the idea has been coming that the `Matrimandir’ in Auroville ought to be built soon.”
It would indeed be good, and would change things in an unexpected way – but this does not seem to have been revealed to others.
* * *
JULY 1970
7 JULY 1970
Taped conversation
Original language: French & English
First publication:
Source: MoA, p.97; CWM, XIII, p.348; AMW, p.344
[Eighteenth “Aspiration talk”:]
Christophe: This is a letter from Rod. He would like me to read it to you. May I do that?
Yes.
[Reading Rod’s letter:]
Divine Mother, there is great confusion about Auroville’s organization, inner as well as outer. How can we work together towards the realization of a higher consciousness? It seems that Auroville should become a more homogeneous community with a greater sense of unity. In order to realize this, would it be possible for all the inhabitants of Promesse, Hope, Aspiration, Peace, etc. to meet in order to work together one day a week on a communal garden, perhaps the garden of Truth? Or each person could devote one day a week to a communal farm, to produce food for Auroville. That would help us to get to know each other better and make us more capable of organizing ourselves in the right spirit. And perhaps the people engaged in individual projects for Auroville could also work together more closely, so as to form a sort of guiding team in Auroville, so that each one’s work could progress more effectively. Would such a concerted effort in Auroville just now help us to do your work? With a prayer of perfection.
The aspiration is good, but… I don’t know whether the time has come.
Christophe: He is not the only one. There are several people working in different places in Auroville who feel this need to unite and to do the same work together.
Yes, the idea is good, but this is how I see it. We want to build the Matrimandir; and then, that was the idea: when we begin to build the Matrimandir, everyone who wants to work there will be able to do so. And that would really be working on the central idea.
And it should be soon. It should have been already. So there, there will be work for everyone. We have been thinking of beginning the Matrimandir for a long time. In fact, everyone should come and work there, except, of course, those who work elsewhere. There will be work for everybody. It is better than… It is the centre of the town.
You could tell him this: in principle the idea is good. But as for the application, for a long time, more than a year, we have wanted to begin the Matrimandir so that everyone could work there. A person would have to say, “No, I do not want to” and have his reasons.
It is like the Force, the central Force of Auroville, the cohesive Force of Auroville.
There will be gardens. There will be everything, all the possibilities: engineers, architects, all kinds of manual work. So you can tell him from me that he has picked up the idea which was in the air, but that we want its application to be truly symbolic. And when we begin to build the Matrimandir, we will put everyone to work on it. Not every day and all the time, but it will be organized.
Is that all you wanted to say?
* * *
AUGUST 1970
13 AUGUST 1970
Report on the Quarter
Original language: French & English
Source: Bulletin, November 70, p.120
[On 13th August there was a collective meditation at Auroville followed by the Vande Mataram and readings from Savitri. This was for the symbolic inauguration of Matri Mandir.]
* * *
14 AUGUST 1970
Message
Original language: French
First publication:
Source: MoA, p.4; CWM, XIII, p.229; AMW, p.352
[People from Auroville and the Ashram gathered for a first invocation of the Matrimandir near the Banyan tree. Mother sent this message with Nolini:]
The Matrimandir wants to be the symbol of the Divine’s answer to man’s aspiration for perfection.
Union with the Divine manifesting in a progressive human unity.
*
Photos
Original language: French & English
First publication: Bulletin Nov 1970
Source: Bulletin Nov 1970
Meditation at the site for Matrimandir
Readings of Savitri at the site for Matrimandir
Singing the Bande Mataram at the site for Matrimandir
* * *
SEPTEMBER 1970 PROBABLY SEPTEMBER 1970
Reported
Original language: English
First publication: MTL, 1974
Source: MTL, p.30
[Mother told Huta:]
Child, your tiny house will be very close to the Matrimandir. I will arrange everything for you. Leave everything to me. I will see to everything…
[Huta took her hands into hers]
Huta: Oh! But, Mother, I have left everything to you, and truly I am not at all anxious about my house, but I am anxious about the Matrimandir. I am ever grateful to you for everything.
[Mother pressed Huta’s hands and gave a lovely smile.]
* * *
SEPTEMBER 1970 (?)
Original language:
First publication:
Source: CWM, XIII, p.229; AMW, p.352
The Matrimandir wants to be the symbol of the Universal Mother according to Sri Aurobindo’s teaching.
* * *
NOVEMBER 1970 15 NOVEMBER 1970
Message
Original language: French & English
First publication:
Source: MoA, p.4; Gaz, I, 1p.3; CWM, XIII, p.229; AMW, p.358
The Matrimandir will be the soul of Auroville.
The sooner it is there, the better it will be for everybody and especially for the Aurovilians.
* * *
DECEMBER 1970 TOWARDS THE END OF 1970
Report of a conversation in English.
Original language: English
First publication: MTL 1974
Source: MTL, p.30
[Excerpt from a conversation with Huta:]
Child your tiny house will be very close to the Matrimandir. I will arrange everything for you. Leave everything to me. I will see to everything…
Huta: Oh! But, Mother, I have left everything to you, and truly I am not at all anxious about my house, but I am anxious about the Matrimandir. I am ever grateful to you for everything.
* * *
1971
New Year Message:
Blessed are those who take a leap towards the Future.
FEBRUARY 1971
16 FEBRUARY 1971
Written on a note book
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.74; CWM, XIII, p.229; AMW, p.368
Shyam Sunder: For the construction of the Matrimandir, will only Aurovilians do the work or will there also be hired workers and other people of goodwill?
It is preferable that the work be organized without paid labour so that it is sure to continue in all circumstances.
* * *
21 FEBRUARY 1971 MOTHER’S 93RD BIRTHDAY
Message
Original language: English & French
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.4; CWM, p.229; AMW, p.370 Fac simile of the message: CWM, XII, p.230
[Message for the laying of the Matrimandir foundation stone of the Matrimandir at 6.30 a.m.:]
Fac simile
CWM
Let the Matrimandir be the living symbol of Auroville’s aspiration for the Divine. [After meditation and music Nolini laid the foundation stone with little Aurofilio at his side.]
*
Description of the ceremony: Gaz, I, 3, p.38
The Foundation stone of the Matrimandir was laid at the centre of Auroville on 21st February 1971, exactly at sun-rise at 6.30 am. A fire, symbol of the human aspiration, had been lit in front of a simple yet magnificent altar and the large gathering sat in a semi-circle, facing the East, while the air resounded with the Mother’s message and the music. The Mother gave the following message for the occasion: “Let the Matrimandir be the living symbol of Auroville’s aspiration for the Divine”.
An extract from Sri Aurobindo’s book “The Mother” was read out by Nolini kanta Gupta: “The Mother’s power and not any human endeavour and tapasya can alone rend the lid and tear the covering and shape the vessel and bring down into this world of obscurity and falsehood and death and suffering Truth and Light and Life Divine and the immortal’s Ananda.”
* Description of the ceremony by Shraddhavan:
The foundation ceremony for the Matrimandir took place at a sunrise ceremony. Sunil had composed a music for the occasion, incorporating Mother’s reading of the message in French and in English. Nolini and Aurofilio had brought a precious wooden box from Mother, which was sealed in the ground between the banyan tree and the present site of the Matrimandir as the land for the Matrimandir had not yet been purchased.
*
Photo: GMLA, p.139
Photo
*
Letter
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: Archives; AMW, p.371
[The Aurovilians working in the Matrimandir Nursery asked Mother whether they should postpone growing flowers and plants in order to join in the work of digging the excavation for the Matrimandir.]
No, the gardens are as important as the Matrimandir itself.
* * *
22 FEBRUARY 1971
Letter
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: Gaz, I,3p.38
[Letter of Satprem to Roger:]
Dear Roger, I wanted to tell you that yesterday I had the very strong perception or sensation in front of the fire. Suddenly I felt as if an OM was springing up from the ancient times of Vedic Sacrifice and we were there to round off a whole cycle – to such an extent that when I heard Sunil’s music, I was surpised as though I were hearing the hymns to Agni of the Vedas. It was extremely powerful. Something did take place yesterday. It is good for the future. With very cordial regards. Satprem
* * *
MARCH 1971
1 MARCH 1971
Message
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.35, MA, p. ; AMW, p.373, Copy of the original can be seen at the “Land Service”
[When Mother was informed that the land needed for Matrimandir still could not be purchased, she gave the following message:]
For those who have some land to sell,
There is a Supreme Divinity witness of all our actions and the day of the consequence will come soon.
* * *
14 MARCH 1971
Letter
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.4; CWM, XIII, p.230; AMW, p.376
[Message given for beginning the excavation of the foundation of the Matrimandir, which was started on this date by Aurovilians and Ashramites. Later on, labourers were employed to hasten the work.]
The fraternity of collaboration.
The aspiration towards Unity in joy and Light.
* * *
APRIL 1971 5 APRIL 1971
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p. 113
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s Notes:]
” The following note was prepared by Roger:
On the subject of Bharat Nivas, Mother had said to Roger:
I see no reason for not engaging contractors. How to build Auroville without help? What I have said to Shyam Sunder is that for the Matrimandir it would be preferable to go without it, but for other constructions it is different…”
” Question: Does Mother agree on the following points: ” For the Matrimandir in the present situation, neither contractor, nor paid labour. ” For Bharat Nivas, schools, etc. until the new order Auroville can utilise contractors under the supervision of the Architectural Office of Auroville [Auroville’s Future].
Mother agrees.
For Kuljian Corporation, Mother has permitted Shyam Sunder to talk to Pradyot.
* * *
10 APRIL 1971
Drafted by someone else, signed by Mother
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.86; AMW, p.381
[Notice submitted to Mother and approved by her:]
Auromodèle will be developed as a first attempt at community life in Auroville. At the Centre of Auroville we shall build huts for twenty to thirty people who will participate in the construction of Matrimandir and its organisation.
*
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: MoA, p.74; CWM, XIII, p,230; AMW, p.381, Down Memory Lane, p. 113
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s Notes:]
” Notice: As we are in a period of construction, it is imperative that the Aurovilians who live at the Centre should work on the construction of the Matrimandir. Those who do not want to work on the Matrimandir should not live at the Centre.
* * *
28 APRIL 1971
Taped conversation
Original language: French
First publication: AM MA
Sources: MA, p.108; AMW, p.383
[Excerpt of a conversation with Satprem:]
[On the occasion of the laying of the first stone of the Matrimandir on 21 February, Satprem had written a letter to Roger1.]
I saw your letter (I saw it in English), the letter you wrote to Roger for the “Matrimandir”…. It’s interesting, it’s good…. They have a bulletin, a “Gazette”, it will be published there.
MAY 1971
6 MAY 1971
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p. 115
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s Notes:]
” Answer to Gene [Maslow] who says he does not want to resume responsible work at the Matrimandir unless it is Mother’s wish:
Until the building of Auroville is over, those who want to live on the spot must help in this building. So it is natural that you should take up some useful work there. Do with good will what is asked from you.
Blessings.
* * *
30 MAY 1971
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p. 116
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s Notes:]
” Answer to a letter from Howard [later known as Amrit] about the disposal of fruits and vegetables grown at the Nursery. Should they be distributed freely to Aurovilians or should they be sold within the Auroville community, or outside of Auroville?
It depends on the quantity. One can distribute these if it is little, otherwise it can come to the kitchen and the kitchen can pay.
* * *
JUNE 1971
JUNE 1971
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: French
First publication: Matrimandir newsletter & brochures
Sources: Roger; Archives, AMW, p.390
[After a conversation with Mother in her room Roger noted down the following. He came across these notes in 1985, and shared them with some Matrimandir workers. These notes have been published in the Matrimandir Newsletter and brochure, even though they were never formally approved by Mother.]
In India the creation, that means basically the work of the Mother-Creator, has for centuries been considered as anti-divine. Sri Aurobindo has shown that it is in Matter that the Divine must be manifested; he has insisted on the understanding of this concept of the Mother as Creator. Matrimandir is here to teach people that it is not be escaping from the world or ignoring it that they will realize the Divine in life. Matrimandir must be the symbol of this Truth.
I don’t want it to be made into a religion; with all my force I refuse. We don’t want dogmas, principles, ritual, absolutely not, absolutely not.
Roger: Why do we build Matrimandir?
For the great majority of Indians there is no need for an explanation; they know from their background. It is for the Westerners and the Americans of whom one in a million is able to feel that it is necessary. Roger: Will the Force more specially be concentrated in Matrimandir?
The new Force works everywhere, especially in this room. You feel it, don’t you? There is here a density capable of performing miracles, but few are able to feel it, to perceive it. Sri Aurobindo and I have concentrated this Force on the whole town; it is palpable, perceptible as a very concrete perfume which penetrates, but one must be able to feel it, to receive it.
But no miracles as people would like to see; for them to believe, they need material proofs without which they deny.
Build Matrimandir, put my symbol in place and Sri Aurobindo’s, and the globe. I take it upon myself to make it into a very strong centre. Only those who are capable will perceive it.
* * *
1 JUNE 1971
Signed by Mother, but drafted by someone else
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: CWM, p.246; AMW, p.391
[Notice drafted by Shyam Sunder and submitted to Mother:]
Matrimandir Workers’ Camp Kitchen and Dining Room
These are meant primarily for Matrimandir workers and should be kept clean and used cleanly. One should not smoke here and should learn to eat in quietude.
[Mother approved it and added:]
In this country cleanliness is indispensable to avoid typhoid.
* * *
1971
Message
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.86; CWM, p.247, AMW, p.391
[Message for the Matrimandir Workers’ Kitchen.]
An absolute cleanliness is indispensable in this country and climate to avoid illness. Great precautions must be taken.
* * *
AUGUST 1971
28 AUGUST 1971
Message
Original language: English
First publication
Sources: CWM, p.219; AMW, p.395
For each problem there is a solution that can give satisfaction to everybody; but for finding this ideal solution each one must want it instead of meeting the others with the will to enforce one’s own preference.
Enlarge your consciousness and aspire for the satisfaction of all.
* * *
AUGUST 1971
28 AUGUST 1971
Message
Original language: English
First publication
Sources: CWM, p.219; AMW, p.395
For each problem there is a solution that can give satisfaction to everybody; but for finding this ideal solution each one must want it instead of meeting the others with the will to enforce one’s own preference.
Enlarge your consciousness and aspire for the satisfaction of all.
* * *
SEPTEMBER 1971 17 SEPTEMBER 1971
Message
Original language:
First publication
Sources: MoA, p.43; CWM, XIII, p.219; AMW, p.396
You see only your side of the question, but if you want to widen your consciousness it would be better to look from all sides impartially, later you will discover that this attitude has great advantages.
* * *
20 SEPTEMBER 1971
Message
Original language: French
First publication
Sources: MoA, p.44; CWM, XIII, p.220; AMW, p.396
Widen your consciousness to the dimension of the earth and you will have a place for everything.
* * *
OCTOBER 1971 OCTOBER 1971
Message
Original language:
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.4; CWM, XIII, p.231; AMW, p.396
[In reply to Alain Grandcolas??]
The Matrimandir is directly under the influence of the Divine and certainly He arranges things better than we could do ourselves.
* * *
5 OCTOBER 1971
Letter
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.4; CWM, XIII, p.231; AMW, p.397
[In connection with a proposal to build another “Matrimandir” somewhere else (in Orissa):]
There is only one Matrimandir, the Matrimandir of Auroville. The others must have another name.
* * *
10 OCTOBER 1971
Signed by Mother, but drafted by someone else
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.87; AMW, p.398
[Notice drafted by Roger and approved by Mother.]
The building of the Matrimandir now requires the support of all men of goodwill, both inside and outside Auroville.
The help of specialized and qualified contractors, backed and supported by the enthusiasm and faith of the Aurovilians, is necessary for its rapid construction.
* * *
20 OCTOBER 1971
Letter
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: Satprem tells it to Mother on November 10th; MoA, p.74; CWM, XIII, p.230; AMW, p.398
Piero: I have made a detailed study of the work to be done, and I have reached the conclusion that we [Aurovilians] can take upon ourselves the responsibility for the excavation and construction work of the four pillars; then a commercial firm such as EEC would agree to take over the construction of the Matrimandir itself… etc. It therefore appears that the work of the Aurovilians is not an obstacle to the rest of the work being handled by a specialized firm…
That’s very good, I am fully in agreement.
The safety and strength of the construction should come before personal questions. I count upon you to see that everything is done harmoniously.
* * *
NOVEMBER 1971 3 NOVEMBER 1971
Letter
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.74; CWM, XIII, p.230; AMW, p.400
Alain Grandcolas: Can you give some general ideas about the way in which you want the Matrimandir to be built, so that we shall have no more doubts and may build with light and confident hearts?
Strength, safety, durability, harmonious balance.
The foundations are especially important and should be done by experts. There is room for everyone of goodwill, and for those who in all sincerity and simplicity want to offer their work, there is enough to keep them usefully occupied.
* * *
10 NOVEMBER 1971
Taped conversation
Original language: French
First publication: AM MA
Sources: MA, p.291, AMW, p.402
[Excerpt of a conversation with Satprem:]
Well, do you have anything?
Satprem: I have something, but what about you?
Me… for the moment…. [Mother seems tired] I don’t know if something will come later.
The consciousness [of the body] is changing very fast.
I’ll see later if something comes.
Tell me first what you have.
Satprem: An Auroville story.
Auroville? What happened?
Satprem: A few days ago I received a letter from a young man who is an architect [Piero] there, (I don’t know him). He wrote me saying that he would like to see me.
Ah, why? Satprem: Because he would like to explain to me Auroville’s problems. So I replied: “Auroville’s problems will be solved and cleared up only when Aurovilians turn directly to Mother, and hence I wish they would go directly to the Source instead of going to an intermediary.” Then I added amicably that I could nevertheless… etc.
You did well.
He has an idea of how to make the Matrimandir, and others have another idea, but then Roger is going to arrive soon – I would like to wait for Roger to be here, and he will decide.
Satprem: Because he wrote me a second letter, saying, “I agree that one must turn to the Source, which is the `stable and welcoming’ reference, but unfortunately one doesn’t have direct access to the Source, one has to go through intermediaries….”
[Mother nods her head]
Satprem: So there are some problems, and he has explained one of them in his letter to me.
Tell me what it is.
Satprem: For example, he says he wrote you a month ago, in October, and you answered him in writing. He wrote you this: “I have made a detailed study of the work to be done, and I have reached the conclusion that we [Aurovilians] can take upon ourselves the responsibility for the excavation and construction work of the four pillars; then a commercial firm such as EEC (I don’t know what it is, it’s in Madras, I think) would agree to take over the construction of the Matrimandir itself… etc. It therefore appears that the work of the Aurovilians is not an obstacle to the rest of the work being handled by a specialized firm….” Then you answered, “That’s very good, I am fully in agreement. The safety and solidity of the work should come BEFORE PERSONAL QUESTIONS. I am counting on you to see that everything goes harmoniously.”
And then I realized… Afterwards, the others told me that he had written that without consulting them.
Satprem: And he tells me he did it “after consultation with about 50 Aurovilians”.
No…. Listen, those things are enough to drive anyone crazy!
Satprem: In a nutshell he wants the work to be handled by the Aurovilians, without barring the participation of experts.
But that’s how it is. It will be that way. That’s what I said; but when it comes to the actual execution…. I advise you not to get involved in this!
Satprem: Oh, but I don’t intend to at all!
Yes, they’re… It’s pretty complicated!
Satprem: I’ll simply tell him to wait for Roger’s return and that the decision will be made then.
Yes. But the decision has been made – I don’t know, I thought they were already working.
Satprem: The “official” decision is that a firm in Madras will do the work.
Not all the work. We have asked the Aurovilians to be there – exactly as he puts it.
Satprem: Well, because he says he is ready even to undertake the foundation work for the pillars.
Oh, no! That’s… Look, tell him that Roger will soon arrive and everything will be decided when he’s here.
Satprem: But I really don’t want to get involved in their problems!
Well, no!.. Did you see the sentence in my letter – there are also personal questions behind. He is not saying it, but that’s what it is. He’s hoping to find someone [Satprem] who will give him the authority, you understand?
Satprem: Yes, I think he is.
So just tell him what I said.
[silence]
Satprem: I don’t know if I’m right or wrong, but for a very long time I’ve made it sort of my duty to see all those people, to receive them whenever they wanted. So I used to see lots of people….
Ooh!
Shyam Sunder: Either from Auroville or the Ashram, or French or Germans…. I have seen lots of them – anyone who came to the tennis court could see me. I did that for several years. And then I don’t know, all of a sudden I completely stopped. I said I wouldn’t see anyone anymore…. I don’t know if I was right. Because sometimes, I feel it would perhaps be good, it might help people, but on the other hand I have the feeling that… it’s not the solution.
From your personal point of view, you were quite right.
Satprem: Yes, but then I wonder if it isn’t egoistic?
No, my child! Sri Aurobindo used to tell me, “The Divine is the supreme egoist!” [Mother laughs and everyone laughs]
* * *
14 NOVEMBER 1971
Letter
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.75; CWM, p.220; AMW, p.405
[A reply to Piero about the work at Matrimandir:]
Each one has good reasons to support his own opinion, and I am no expert to judge between them. But from the spiritual point of view I know that with true goodwill all opinions can be harmonized in a more comprehensive and truer solution. This is what I expect from the workers of Auroville. Not that some give way to others, but that on the contrary all should combine their efforts to achieve a more comprehensive and perfect result.
The ideal of Auroville demands this progress – don’t you want to make it?
* * *
DECEMBER 1971
3 DECEMBER 1971
Reported
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: Ruud’s diary p.20, 24,26
[At the Matrimandir excavation a fire broke out between workers from two different villages; after an hour the fighting was stopped, but no more work was done that day. On the same morning, the Indo Pakistan war started.]
* * *
18 DECEMBER 1971
Reported
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: Ruud’s diary p.20, 24,26
[By this date, there were 400 paid workers employed on the Matrimandir excavation site.]
* * *
1971
Message
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.53; CWM, XIII, p.256; AMW, p.407
[Message for raising funds for Matrimandir.] Give your money to the Divine work and you will be richer than you would be by keeping it.
* * *
1972
New Year Message:
Let us all be worthy of Sri Aurobindo’s centenary.
JANUARY 1972
12 JANUARY 1972
Taped conversation
Original language: French
First publication: AM MA
Sources: MA, p.
[Excerpt of a conversation with Satprem:]
Do you happen to remember where I wrote the twelve attributes of the Mother (the symbol with twelve petals)? There’s one, four and twelve.
Satprem: Yes, I think it was for Auroville.
For Auroville, but I said it years ago…
Satprem: I saw it recently.
The twelve.
[Sujata goes out in search of the paper.]
On this one there aren’t any details.
[Mother extends a note in English:]
The Mother’s Symbol
The central circle represents the Divine Consciousness.
The four petals represent the four powers of the Mother.
The twelve petals represent the twelve powers
of the Mother manifested for Her work.
January 24th, 1958
The Mother
* * *
19 JANUARY 1972
Taped conversation
Original language: French
First publication: AM MA
Sources: MA, p.41; AMW, p.412
Names of the meditation chambers only: MoA, p.5
[Excerpt of a conversation with Satprem referring to a conversation with Satprem on 12 January. Mother was asking for a certain paper, saying that in 1927, she told Sri Aurobindo the meaning of the petals in her symbol. He wrote it down, but that paper could not be found later.]
Last time I told you I was looking for the twelve attributes [Mother takes out a sheet of paper]. Here they are, someone found this:
| Sincerity | Humility | Gratitude | Perseverance |
| Aspiration | Receptivity | Progress | Courage |
| Goodness | Generosity | Equanimity | Peace |
The first eight concern the attitude towards the Divine, and the last four towards humanity.
And we also found a text from Sri Aurobindo (with a colored chart of the twelve petals).
Centre and four powers, white.
The twelve all different colors in three groups:
top group red, passing to orange towards yellow;
next group, yellow passing through green towards blue; and
third group, blue passing through violet towards red.
If white is not convenient, the centre may be gold (powder).
Sri Aurobindo
20 March 1934
The centre is gold.
Satprem: But what did you need these twelve attributes for?
They’re going to build twelve rooms around the Matrimandir, at ground level, and Roger wanted each room to have a name: one of the twelve attributes of the Mother, and the corresponding color.
* * *
FEBRUARY 1972
21 FEBRUARY 1972 MOTHER’S 94TH BIRTHDAY
Report
Original language:
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.5; CWM, XIII, p.232; AMW, p.414
[At an early morning ceremony, about 2,000 people filed past the cement mixer at Matrimandir, each placing a granite stone in the machine; it was the symbolic beginning of the construction, the cementing of the foundation. Mother had inscribed on a stone the date, the OM symbol, blessings and her signature. This was laid at the base of the east pillar.]
[The large rosewood model representing Matrimandir surrounded by the twelve petals and the twelve gardens was exhibited for the first time.]
[Message for this occasion:]
Let Auroville be the symbol of a progressive Unity.
And the best way to realize this is a unity of aspiration towards the Divine Perfection in work and in feeling, in a consecration of the entire life.
*
Report on the Quarter
Buletin, April 1972, p. 101
[On 21 February, 1972 a solemn function was held at the Matrimandir site in Auroville timed at sun rise. Last year, on the same date was laid the foundation stone. This time is marked the end of the heavy excavation work and the commencement of the next stage – the construction of four pillars. At 6.15 a.m. with the music of “The Hour of God”, those present there started putting, one by one, a stone in the concrete mixer. At 6.45 Nolini read the following Message of the Mother:]
Let Auroville be the symbol of a progressive Unity.
And the best way to realize this is a unity of aspiration towards the Divine Perfection in work and in feeling, in a consecration of the entire life. The Mother
[A stone bearing the Mother’s writing (Om) and Her signature was put in the base of one of the pillars by Martha and L. Ramalingam.]
* * *
22 FEBRUARY 1972
Note
Original language: French
First publication: AM MA
Sources: MA, p.69; Bull
All day long on the 21st I had a strong feeling that it was everybody’s birthday, and I felt the urge to say “happy birthday” to everyone.
A very strong impression that something new was manifesting in the world, and that all those who were ready and receptive would incarnate it.
In a few days, probably, we will know what it was.
* * *
24 FEBRUARY 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.124
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” A letter dated 22nd February from some residents at Peace was read:
Q.: On day when special meditations are held in the Ashram, some of us would rather remain in Auroville than go to town. We would like to hold collective meditation in Matrimandir at the same time that meditation is held at the Samadhi. Do you approve of this?
Mother approves.
* * *
28 FEBRUARY 1972 AUROVILLE’S 4TH BIRTHDAY
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.126
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Upon Chamanlal’s request to Mother for someone to do the opening of the Meteorological Station, Mother asked Shyam Sunder to do it. It was for the next day, the 29th February, and at 6 a.m. they were to start the concreting work of the Matrimandir pillars, he will be at the Matrimandir then. So he asked mother if Roger could do it.
If he likes…
There is meditation here tomorrow.
Shyam Sunder: The work starts at 6. We will be back in time.
” Sebastien wanted to dance at the Matrimandir the next day in the evening in the foundation-hole. Shyam Sunder commented that the concreting work was to start in the morning and these things disturbed the work.
He can dance elsewhere.
* * *
APRIL 1972
21 APRIL 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.168
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Rs 1,300 were stolen from the Matrimandir Camp. The persons concerned admits his negligence and promises to be careful. There have been other thefts also. For the first time, six persons have agreed to keep night-watch, turn by turn, in stead of a paid watchman. Mother gave a blessings packet for each.
* * *
MAY 1972
2 MAY 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.172
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Piero has written to Mother requesting her for a message for tomorrow “so that all the work will be light and guided by “You”.
Tomorrow at 4 p.m. the 20 our concreting work at the Matrimandir at the central bottom is to start.
Mother wrote: a message dated 3.5.72 [see it at this date]. * * *
3 MAY 1972
Message
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.5; CWM, p.233; AMW, p.437
[Ashramites and Aurovilians gathered to work for 26 hours concreting the tie-slab connecting the foundations of the four pillars of Matrimandir. Before the work started at 4 p.m., Shyam Sunder read out this message from Mother:]
Fac simile
Let us all work with a growing sincerity for the manifestation of the Divine Truth.
* * *
4 MAY 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.173
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Yesterday the 20 hour concreting work at the Matrimandir foundation basement has started. The biggest number of Aurovilians so far came to work. In the midnight the Ashram students also joined.
* * *
6 JUNE 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.186
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” The Madras engineers came yesterday. They say that the quality of the Matrimandir construction work done so far is satisfactory.
” Regarding people living in the Matrimandir Workers camp Shyam Sunder read out a note to Mother. Most of the people there agree, but some say that Mother should be asked what she says about it.
I can sign it. As it was a rough written note, Shyam Sunder said he can bring it next morning.
* * *
8 JUNE 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.187
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Mother signed the Matrimandir Workers Camp note “with blessings”
Sources: Matrimandir Workers’ Camp; AMW, p.437; DML, p.187
Matrimandir Workers’ Camp is meant for those who
1. Work whole time at the Matrimandir or in the Matrimandir Garden Nursery.
2. Do not take alcohol or drugs, and live cleanly.
3. There should be no smoking or sex-indulgence in the Matrimandir area. 6.6.72
With blessings
[The original of this message remained posted in the Matrimandir Workers’ Camp.]
* * *
11 JUNE 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.188
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” The basement of Matrimandir pillars is finished. The construction of the actual pillars is to start. The work will be slow now due to lack of resources. Mother apparently did not like the slowing down.
* * *
JULY 1972
July 1972
Text
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.5; CWM, p.232; AMW,p.439
[Significances given for the twelve underground rooms which will radiate from the Matrimandir foundation.]
| Sincerity | Humility | Gratitude | Perseverance |
| Aspiration | Receptivity | Progress | Courage |
| Goodness | Generosity | Equanimity | Peace |
* * *
3 JULY 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.195
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Informed Mother of the solution of a technical problem in the construction of Matrimandir. Regarding the financial difficulty she remarked:
C’est dégoutant [It is disgusting.]
* * *
17 JULY 1972
Note
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: MoA,p.5; CWM, p.232; AMW, p.440
[Mother wrote down for Roger the significance of the four pillars of the Matrimandir.]
| North = Mahakali | East = Mahalakshmi |
| South = Maheshwari | West = Mahasaraswati |
* * *
25 JULY 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.223
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” David, who works at the Matrimandir, wants to know about the playing of music and reading of Savitri at the Matrimandir construction site and gardens.
Not when there is work.
* * *
AUGUST 1972
AUGUST 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: French
First publication:
Sources: Roger, Archives, AMW, p.441
[After a meeting with Mother, Roger noted down what she had said. These notes were not checked again with Mother.]
[On the subject of Matrimandir the quality of silence:]
I would like people to keep silent. It must be written there [in the Matrimandir area] that one keeps silent, in French, English and Tamil. And no music.
[About flowers:]
No flowers inside. There should be a room to put them in, in a corridor.
[Matrimandir:]
In principle not for visitors, reserved for Aurovilians; but not everyone will be admitted. The first condition for those who want to go there is to ask. Those who have contributed to the construction will be admitted in the first place. If there are doubtful cases, they should be referred to me. All those who have a doubtful presence should not go. If there is the slightest doubt, the case should be presented to me. People must be known for their qualifications.
[Matrimandir door:]
One cannot leave it [the building] open. Then voluntary guardians would be needed, day and night. I think it’s simplest with doors.
* * *
13 AUGUST 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.211
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Piero writes that the Matrimandir construction requires concentration and it is not possible to accelerate it so as to finish the pillars by 15th August.
No hurrying.
Shyam Sunder: He wants to know what is to be done after the pillars.
We will see.
* * *
14 AUGUST 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.211
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Mother gave a golden symbol of Sri Aurobindo and said,
It is from me to you… for Auroville… not to be given to anyone… I don’t know.
Shyam Sunder: Mother when the Matrimandir will be built, we will keep it there as a decoration. Upto then I guard it.
Mother nodded.
” The weekly selection from Sri Aurobindo was read and approved.
* * *
15 AUGUST 1972 SRI AUROBINDO’S 100TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY
Message
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.104; CWM, XIII, p.233; AMW, p.442
[On Sri Aurobindo’s 100th birthday there was a major concreting at Matrimandir. People from all over Auroville and from the Ashram gathered to help. Mother sent this message.]
Goodwill and peace to all.
* * *
17 AUGUST 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.211
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Mother was very pleased to know that the Kuilapalayam village has contributed Rs 210 for Matrimandir. It is a village of 300 houses and the village elders say that the amount is very small, but they give it as a token of their expression of brotherhood, goodwill and co-operation with Auroville. Shyam Sunder has spoken to Dyuman and they think that the Centenary napkin could be given to each house there.
Yes, yes. I was thinking that something should be given.
” Narad has written to Mother about the smallness of the size of the Matrimandir gardens fixed by Roger.
I have never told Narad that is should be very big… Roger is the best judge.
* * *
18 AUGUST 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.212
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Mother answered questions on meditation sent by Seyril and Sadhana of the Matrimandir Workers Camp.
Q.: should we assemble for meditation as a community in the Matrimandir excavation?
I do not like so much going inside the excavation.
* * *
SEPTEMBER 1972
8 September 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.220
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” The Matrimandir Camp Group meditation in the meditation room of the camp on Thursdays at 8.25 p.m., subject to change in place and time in special circumstances, has Mother’s blessings.
* * *
16 SEPTEMBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.223
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Piero’s letter about the next phases of the Matrimandir construction. He wants to know whether it should be continued by ourselves or by a contractor.
What does Roger say?
Shyam Sunder: He agrees that it be continued by Piero, preferably with the help of the Ashram engineers, if available.
Mother approves of our continuing the work.
* * *
20 SEPTEMBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.224
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Chamanlal writes about disharmony between the Madras Institute and Auroville Architectural Office. Today there is a meeting. Blessings prayed for.
* * *
27 SEPTEMBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.228
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Three Indians have written to Mother for blessings and guidance for Durga Puja during Navaratra at Matrimandir, Mother said, ‘alright’.
” Shyam Sunder informed Mother that the idea is that near the Matrimandir Workshop the place should be cleaned, Durga’s picture be installed and Srei Aurobindo’s ‘Hymn to Durga” be recited. Mother nodded her approval. When asked for further guidance, or if she has to say more about it, she said,
‘Nothing.’
* * *
20 OCTOBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.237
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” At Matrimandir the third pillar is finished. Mother was happy to know. Day before yesterday when Shyam Sunder went to Matrimandir, there came the idea of starting the work of construction of the twelve meditation rooms and the Matrimandir gardens [Mother was happy].
On the other hand we have no money. There is no money to pay the land already bought, several construction works have stopped, even for the Matrimandir work already done we have borrowed a lakh of Rupees. In spite of this difficulty the idea persists.
Shyam Sunder: I want to know what Mother sees about it.
There is no money at all?
Shyam Sunder: No, Mother.
I see a pressure in the atmosphere… but what to do? Shyam Sunder: I have spoken to the people at Matrimandir, Piero, Alain. There is the difficulty of money. They have asked me to ask Mother if she says ‘yes’. At present, even if one begins, one can begin only slowly.
Are materials necessary?
Shyam Sunder: In the beginning, no, It does not cost much. But towards the end, it will cost a good deal.
[Mother gave her approval for commencing.]
Shyam Sunder: Do I say to the people at Matrimandir that Mother has said Yes?
Yes.
* * *
25 OCTOBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.239
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” About Matrimandir:
Shyam Sunder: I spoke yesterday to Piero. He says that it is not a question of collaboration or goodwill or faith in Mother. He speaks of financial difficulty, his overwork and increase in work due to change in plans.
Truly, I can’t say what to do. I am no architect, not an expert. Each one is sticking to one’s own point of view. [She shook her hands]. What is the solution?
Shyam Sunder: Piero is the most capable person for the construction. He is necessary for the work. I can try to persuade him, Mother.
And if he is not persuaded?
Shyam Sunder: Then I don’t know.
Try to find out a meeting point, a common base for the work to be done. Shyam Sunder: Yes, Mother, I can try.
[She gave a blessing packet.]
* * *
26 OCTOBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.240
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Yesterday, Shyam Sunder went to Matrimandir, took Piero with him and there was a meeting with the people working there. The talking was done without passion and it is agreed that we should first finish the necessary studies in detail and then start the new areas of work in a few weeks. Mother was pleased to know of it.
* * *
31 OCTOBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.241
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” On a request, Mother gave a message for the Matrimandir workers.
Sources: MoA, p.75; CWM, XIII, p.223; AMW, p.447; DML, p.241
Harmony
Goodwill
Discipline
Truth
I can work with you only if you do not say a lie and are at the service of Truth.
* * *
4 NOVEMBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.242
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:] ” Mother said that Huta will be the guardian of Matrimandir. For her a residence is to be built in one of the twelve gardens there. She has given money also for it. Shyam Sunder said that when Roger comes back, he will speak to him about it and get it settled.
* * *
14 NOVEMBER 1972
Letter
Original language: English
First publication: MTL 1974
Sources: MTL, p.31
Huta: Didn’t I pray to You in 1965 when You appointed me guardian of the Matrimandir that I would not step into the Sacred Temple until and unless I became perfectly pure and worthy? And with a smile You said: “You will be…” and I was relieved. Yes, have faith.
Love and blessings.
* * *
DECEMBER 1972
21 DECEMBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.255
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Piero has written about the violents threats of K. Shyam Sunder has to communicate Mother’s advice to the person concerned:
You must conquer your bad temper.
[Incidentally Mother remarked]
Auroville is not a shelter for murderers
* * *
22 DECEMBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.255
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:] ” In reply to Mary Helen’s query about the Japanese garden, Mother said:
It is to be naturally in the Japanese way.
* * *
29 DECEMBER 1972
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.257
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s notes:]
” Piero’s letter to Mother: He mentions two points about the Matrimandir construction: i) not getting drawings from madras engineers and Roger, ii) his ill-health.
Mother gave a blessing packet with Sri Aurobindo’s picture. Regarding drawings Shyam Sunder said he is no more hurt as before by these delays although the work suffers.
* * *
1973
New Year Message:
When you are conscious of the whole world at the same time, you are conscious of the Divine.
JANUARY 1973
2 JANUARY 1973
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.261
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s Notes:]
” Narad can write an article on the Matrimandir Nursery for the Lalbagh Journal [Bangalore’s Botanical Garden], but he should not quote Mother unless it is in writing.
* * *
19 JANUARY 1973
Reported after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: MTL, 1974
Sources: MTL, p.32; AMW, p.455
[Answer to Huta who again asks Mother whether the Matrimandir would be built according to Mother’s vision:]
Yes
* * *
22 JANUARY 1973
Notes written after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: DML, 1996
Sources: Down Memory Lane, p.267
[Entry in Shyam Sunder’s Notes:]
” The Madras engineers working upon the architectural design of Matrimandir say: “What is the assurance that there will be no further
Mother on Matrimandir – 1
23 JUNE 1965
Taped conversation
Original language: French
First published in The Mother on Auroville (1977)
[Excerpt from a conversation with Satprem:]
The place is up there, on the Madras road, on top of the hill. (Mother takes a paper and begins to draw)
We have here – naturally, it is not like that in Nature, we shall have to adapt ourselves; it is like that up there on the ideal plane – here, a central point. This central point is a park, which I saw when I was very young – perhaps the most beautiful thing in the world from the point of view of physical, material Nature – a park with water and trees, like all parks, and flowers, but not many; flowers in the form of creepers, palms and ferns, all varieties of palms; water, if possible running water, and possibly a small cascade. From the practical point of view, it would be very good: at the far end, outside the park, we could build reservoirs, which would be used to supply water to the residents.
So in this park, I saw the “Pavilion of Love”. But I dislike this word, for man has turned it into something grotesque; I am speaking of the principle of Divine Love. But that has changed: it will be “The Pavilion of the Mother”, but not this (Mother points to herself) – the Mother, the true Mother, the principle of the Mother. I say “Mother” because Sri Aurobindo used that word, otherwise I would have put something else, I would have put “creative principle” or “principle of realization” or – I do not know…. It will be a small building, not a big one, with only a meditation room downstairs, but with columns and probably a circular shape. I say probably, because I am leaving that for Roger to decide.
Upstairs, the first floor will be a room and the roof will be a covered terrace. You know the ancient Indo-Moghul miniatures, with palaces where there are terraces with small roofs supported by columns? You know those old miniatures? Hundreds of them have come into my hands… But this pavilion is very, very beautiful, a small pavilion like this, with a roof on a terrace, and low walls with couches against them to sit on, to meditate in the open air in the evening, at night. And below, downstairs, at ground level, a meditation room, simply – something quite bare. There would probably be at the far end something which would be a living light, perhaps the symbol in living light, a constant light. Otherwise, a very peaceful, very silent place.
Nearby, there would be a small dwelling, a small dwelling which would nevertheless have three floors, but not large-sized, and that would be the house of Huta, who would serve as a guardian. She would be the guardian of the pavilion. She wrote me a very nice letter but she did not understand all that, of course.
That is the centre.
All around, there is a circular road, which separates the park from the rest of the town. There would probably be a gateway – in fact there must be one – in the park. A gateway with the guardian of the gate. The guardian of the gate is a new girl [Huta] who has come from Africa, who wrote me a letter telling me that she wanted to be the guardian of Auroville in order to let only the “Servants of Truth” enter (laughing). It is a very nice plan. So I shall probably put her there as guardian of the park, with a small house on the road at the entrance.
[passage omitted]
Satprem: And you will be there at the centre?
Huta hopes so. (Mother laughs) I did not say no, I did not say yes; I told her, “The Lord will decide.” It depends on my state of health. A removal, no – I am here because of the Samadhi, I shall stay here, that is quite sure. But I can go there on a visit; it is not so far, it takes five minutes by car. But Huta wants to be quiet, silent, aloof, and that is quite possible in her park, surrounded by a road, with someone to stop people from coming in; one can stay very quiet – but if I am there, that is the end of it! There would be collective meditations, etc.
[passage omitted]
From the construction point of view, it will depend on Roger’s plasticity; the details are all the same to me – only I would like this pavilion to be very beautiful. I can see it. For I have seen it, I have had the vision of it; so I shall try to make him understand what I have seen. And the park too, I have seen it – these are old visions, which I had repeatedly. But that is not difficult.
* * *
25 JUNE 1965
Notes taken after a conversation
Original language: English
When first made public: MTL 1974
Where published already: MTL
[Excerpt from a conversation with Huta]
Ah! Now the Mother’s Pavilion – it will be surrounded by a lake, tall trees, various kinds of flowers – I especially want the creepers of hibiscus – Java – red flowers – Power – upon the outer dome of the Mother’s Pavilion. There will be rockeries, in Japanese style, with varieties of cactus, small waterfalls, small pools with lilies, marble statues, marble fountains and pavements decorated with precious stones.
This Pavilion will be in white marble and will have three storeys – the ground floor will be a huge marble Hall – nothing material is to be kept in it except an arrangement by which there will be a perpetual flame representing the Immortal Flame – the white flame of the Supreme Truth. This flame will burn in a lotus built in the centre of Sri Aurobindo’s symbol and my symbol combined in a design made of pure gold. The Supreme Truth will be invoked in it.
For the second floor I do not know yet, but on the third floor there will be a terrace garden and from this top floor the whole of Auroville will be seen. Also on this terrace I would like to have carved marble seats – you know they carve peacocks and things like that in marble.
This Shrine must have a vast area – not like this (Mother took her handkerchief in her palm and closed her hand), so small. Also there must be a silent zone. No vehicles should move in this area, there should be no noise of any kind.
Garden sketch
Mother’s sketch of the gardens, (drawn for Huta)
The Park of Unity will be divided into twelve gardens, which will represent the twelve attributes of the Supreme Mother. In these gardens I would like to have various kinds of flowers – especially the different types of hibiscus – the Divine Consciousness.
On the other side, towards the boundary of the gardens, I wish to have huge trees like palms, varieties of ferns, neem, Indian cork-trees, eucalyptus and many other beautiful big trees – they all represent unity and aspiration.
The whole area will be surrounded by a lake so that the Mother’s Shrine may be on an island. When the lake will be dug, all the soil will be collected on one side in order to make it look like a mountain where there will be fir-trees. You see, in the future there will be snow…
[passage omitted]
And you will be the guardian of the Mother’s Shrine. Your tiny house in the shape of a lotus bud will be on the island very close to my house…
(Huta was amazed and looked at her smiling face. Her eyes were filled with tears of gratitude. Mother put all her sketches back into her diary and, while holding Huta’s letters, she said:)
Look! All these letters of yours have started the Mother’s Shrine. I will explain to you more when I have spoken to the architect [Roger] who will be coming in September…
* * *
JULY (?) 1965
Notes taken after a conversation
Original language: English.
When first made public:
Where published already:
Huta: Since we shall have some nice animals like deer and rabbits in the gardens, why can’t we have lions near the Mother’s Shrine?
Lions are indeed very nice. I have always at least one lion with me, but not physically because people are too frightened and their fear makes a mess.
* * *
1 SEPTEMBER 1965
Report written after a conversation
Original language: English.
When first made public: MTL 1974
Where published already: MTL
[Excerpt from a conversation with Huta:]
Huta showed Mother a picture of the Golden Temple in Kyoto.
Child, this is exactly what we shall have except for the shape of the roof – it must be a terrace and a dome, but the surroundings will be the same – lake, flowers, trees, rockeries, small waterfalls and so on.
Ah! you know, I saw this golden temple at Kyoto when I was in Japan. It is beautiful. The Mother’s Shrine will be like that.
Gardening is a wonderful thing – especially in Japan.
* * *
7 SEPTEMBER 1965
Letter
Original language: English.
When first made public: MTL 1974
Where published already: MTL
[Letter to Huta:]
My dear little child Huta,
Roger has just arrived yesterday. I am seeing him this morning to explain to him the plan of Auroville. The central park will be the park of Unity containing the Pavilion and its “annexe” [Huta’s house] as formerly decided.
* * *
SEPTEMBER 1965
Written comments on a report
Original language: French
When first made public: Never
Where published already: Reproduced in a compilation published by the “Laboratory of Evolution”
[Excerpt from Roger’s first report to Mother – and her written comment on it] CONSIDERATIONS AND GENERAL DATA TO LOCATE AUROVILLE ON THE PROPOSED LANDS
Guiding principles:
2) the best geographical location for Auroville would be along a new road connecting the two main Madras-Pondicherry roads, in order to avoid them while at the same time benefiting of them.
Why? Because these roads will become in the near future roads with high traffic and because the creation of Auroville will unavoidably accelerate this process. It is therefore almost impossible to envisage that a highway passes trough the heart of a new town, because of the noise, of the dangers, of the problems of crossing of this highway by secondary roads, of the presence of undesirable visitors, of the considerable number of cars difficult to control requiring huge parking spaces at the centre of the town, which create important expenditures and constant problems.
Moreover, in the particular case of Auroville the centre should be as far as possible of the main highways because of the presence of the Pavilion of the Mother in the Park of Unity. [Mother’s comments on a page of a small note pad:]
Copy of the original note in French
A kind of isolating zone must surround the park of Unity so that it is solitary and silent. One has access to it only with permission.
* * *
24 DECEMBER 1965
Notes taken after a conversation
Original language: English.
When first made public:
Where published already:
[Excerpt from a conversation with Huta:]
The place for the Mother’s Shrine [later known as Matrimandir] is chosen. It is really a very nice place.
* * *
20 February 1966
Report from a conversation
Original language: English
When first made public: MTL 1974
Where published already: MTL
[Excerpt from a report of Huta after meeting Mother]
Mother then drew a sketch of the entrance of the Matrimandir, a small bridge, a box-room and a fountain at which people would wash their feet before entering The Mother’s Shrine. She said that in the Box-room the cleaning equipment of The Mother’s Shrine would be kept.
Mother’s sketch
* * *
10 MARCH 1966
Letter
Original language: English
When first made public: MTl 1974
Where published already: MTL
[Excerpt from a letter to Huta, in which Mother says how happy she is about the Nebula model:]
… you will be happy as the Truth Pavilion is a kind of island in the centre of an artificial round lake and looks like an immense lotus opened towards heaven.
* * *
12 MARCH 1966
Letter
Original language: English
When first made public: MTL 1974
Where published already: MTL
Answer to Huta who had written to Mother that she aspired sincerely to serve the Truth, but that some people might not like the idea of her being the guardian of the Truth Pavilion:
My very dear little child Huta,
Fear not. The Lord is not influenced by what people say or desire. You will be the guardian of the Pavilion as decided.
LOVE.
15 NOVEMBER 1967
Original language and reliability: written in English
When first made public: MTL 1974
Where published already: MTL
Mother’s comment on a suggestion from Huta to have Her precious things arranged in the Mother’s Shrine.
Fac simile (MTL)
My dear little child Huta,
Indeed it is a very good idea to collect and keep all my precious things that are to go in the Mother’s Shrine.
The only obstacle is that I have no precious things anywhere, neither in my rooms nor in Dyuman’s stores – no precious things at all… and the Mother’s Shrine will be an empty place, empty of all material things, meant only for meditation, concentration and prayer… and I hope, filled with light, spiritual force and the presence of the Truth.
With all my love.
1968
New Year Message:
Remain young, never stop thriving towards perfection.
JANUARY 1968
Probably at the beginning of 1968
Report from Huta
Original language: French
When first made public: MTL 1974
Where published already: MTL
[Huta reports that Mother made this sketch for the urn.]
It shows a round base with a square block on it and a lotus upon that square block. The height of the structure from the base to the top of the petals is marked by Mother as 1.65 m.(Huta believes that it is Mother’s own height).
Fac simile (MTL)
Pink or white Marble
Stainless steel plate embedded in the white mosaic of the urn indicating the date and Mother’s signature.
* * *
FEBRUARY 1968
Original language:
First publication:
Sources:
[Roger came from France for the inauguration bringing with him a first model of the Galaxy (the small one, presently exhibited at the Visitor’s Centre), and photos of it made by Dominique Darr.]
Photo of the original Galaxy model
[In the original version of this Galaxy model, the Matrimandir as we know it now wasn’t represented (it was designed only in 1970-71). In its place there was a large sculpture symbolizing a lotus.]
Photo of the sculpture at the centre of the original Galaxy Model
[Later on, this model was modified and this sculpture replaced by the model of the Matrimandir, its gardens and the amphitheatre.]
* * *
16 FEBRUARY 1968
Report from a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: MTL 1974
Sources: MTL, p.26; AMW, p.119
[Huta reports:]
There was a rumor that instead of the Mother’s Shrine, there would be a small lotus and nothing else. Huta came to know of this and however kept quiet aware that the “dream” of the Lord would turn to be true in spite of all the oppositions. On that day, Huta met Mother who explained in detail to her in every detail the plan for the Mother’s Shrine and the twelve gardens. Huta was amazed because she had never mentioned anything about the rumor. Huta believes that Mother must have felt her feelings and the vibrations.
[After hearing the full plan of Mother’s Shrine, Huta heaved a sigh of relief and told Mother everything she had heard regarding Mother’s Shrine. Mother said gravely:]
Yes, nasty people speak against the Truth…
APRIL 1968
23 April 1968
Taped conversation
Original language: French
First publication: AM MA
Sources: MA, p. ; AMW, p.147
[Excerpt from a conversation with Satprem:]
[Mother shows a brochure on Auroville, the first photo of which shows a white urn beneath a wide sky.]
Photo
[Mother’s reaction to this photo is particularly interesting because the design adopted by Roger for the urn is so stylized that it looks more like a lily bud than the lotus bud drawn by Mother. Because of this, there was uproar in the Ashram…]
It’s very good. It has something… I don’t know, [Mother pushes her fist down into the Earth] it’s like a Law of Destiny: something which imposes itself.
* * *
JUNE 196828 June 1968
Reported after a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: MTL 1974
Sources: MTL, p.27; AMW, p.154;
[After a meditation with Huta, Mother said:]
Do you know the Banyan tree at the Centre of the Mother’s Shrine?
I saw you in my vision just now: you were sitting under the Banyan tree, and garlands were hanging all over you from the branches of the tree. Also, the flowers were showered on you from above. You were peacefully quiet.
[Huta painted Her vision. When Mother saw the painting, She asked that the length of the grass be shortened and after the modification wrote the name for the painting.]
The inner life.
* * *
DECEMBER 1968
29 December 1968
Letter
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.76; CWM, XIII, p 236; AMW, p.158;
Arindam’s Fac simile
Arindan (one of the first settlers of the Centre): My house is finished. Should I have a name for this house?
“Arindam”
I should like this whole place to be called “PEACE”, and that peace, actual peace should reign there, not only between the occupants but with the whole of Auroville, present and future.
* * *
9 JANUARY 1969
Written
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: MoA, p.76; AMW, p.162
[Mother gave the following message to Arindam for the people living in the area at the Centre – which she had named “Peace”.]
“Peace”.
The foremost thing must be Peace. Whatever you do must be by peaceful means. The second thing necessary is Harmony, not only general harmony but also between the individuals living there. You must begin to look for the harmony in each individual and not dwell on the disharmony. The disharmony exists everywhere but you must reject that and allow only the harmony to enter.
There must be a sense of Order.
Each individual must have a sense of self-discipline, and actually practice it.
PEACE, HARMONY, ORDER, SELF-DISCIPLINE.
*
What we are doing now is a new thing; it has nothing to do with the past.
* * *
1969
Letter
Original language: English
First publication:
Sources: CWM, XIII, p.237; AMW, p.163
Janet: It seems that there is more to the Divine’s work at Peace than other places in. Is this true? Is there an occult reason for this?
Be confident and peaceful yourself.
That is contagious.
My blessings are with you.
* * *
30 JANUARY 1969
Reported
Original language: English
First publication: MTL 1974
Sources: MTL, p.29; AMW, p.168
[Huta reports that on that day, Mother appointed Laljibhai Director of the Organisation of Auroville’s Industrial Zone. Huta reports that she told Laljibjai’s feelings for the Matrimandir. Mother wrote;]
Very good. I appreciate Laljibhai’s attitude and his intention. You can be sure that the Matrimandir will be done according to the Divine’s inspiration. With love and blessings.
* * *
14 FEBRUARY 1969Report written after a conversation
Original language: English.
First publication: MTL 1974
Sources: MTL, p.29-30
[Mother informed Huta:]
At the end of March, when Roger will come, the final plan will be made. At the moment the plan of Auromodèle is being made.
[Later Mother asked André to write to Huta on Her behalf:]
It has been decided and will remain decided that the Matrimandir will be surrounded with water. However, water is not available just now and will be available only later, so it is decided to build the Matrimandir now and surround it with water later, perhaps in a few years’ time…
DECEMBER 1969
Report from a conversation
Original language: English
First publication: MTL 1974
Sources: MTL, p.30 ; AMW, p.231
[Excerpt from a conversation with Richard Eggenberger (then in-charge of Matrimandir Gardens, later named Narad,)].
It must be a thing of great beauty, of such a beauty that when men enter the gardens, they will say, “Ah, this is it,” and experience physically, concretely, the significance of each garden. In the garden of Youth, they will know youth; in the garden of Felicity, they will know felicity; in the garden of Perfection, they will know perfection and so on.
One must know how to move from consciousness to consciousness.
* * *
25 DECEMBER 1969
Taped conversation
Original language: French
First publication: AM MA
Sources: MA, p. ; CWM, p. 283
[Excerpt from a conversation with Satprem:] Do you know Paolo [Tomasi, an Italian designer], have you seen him? He’s nice.
Satprem: He is nice. But in fact I have something to say about this. Yesterday I had a visit from both Paolo and Nata [an Italian engineer], and Paolo explained to me a sort of inspiration he had about Auroville. I found it very beautiful, very good, and important. And so I said: “You must absolutely speak directly to Mother yourself.” So when could you see Paolo?
Will I understand him? Because the trouble is that people don’t know how to speak, they talk too fast and I can’t follow.
Tell me what he wants to tell me!
Satprem: I’ll strip the blossoms off it.
It doesn’t matter.
Satprem: He says since several years the energies in Auroville have been scattered: they’re egoistic, each one wants to make his own little hut, his own little trip, or at best hopes to create a supercity which will be nothing but an improvement on all the existing cities of the world. In this Auroville an axis, a centre is lacking. It lacks… a unification of consciousness around a centre, a pivot. So he was saying that in former times people built pyramids, they built cathedrals, and around this symbolic structure consciousness could unite, they could merge…
[Mother nods her head] … be uplifted. Well, we should make an axis, a centre in Auroville, a symbolic temple of the new world we want to create, and all consciousnesses might come together in the construction of that pyramid or temple of the new world. And at the same time, it will help bring down that which is to be expressed there.
It’s very good, that was the original idea: there was the centre, and the city was organized around it. Now they’re doing just the opposite! They want to build the city first and then put in the centre afterwards….
Satprem: And that’s why it isn’t working, he says. He says we have to start with that, and if we don’t start with that, then we won’t accomplish anything.
That was my initial impression. But how to make that clear to Roger? I don’t know. Because it’s Roger who changed it, he wanted to start with Auromodèle, that is, with trials and experiments.
Satprem: So what is happening is that each of the people there is busy with his own trip and his own hut, and there isn’t any “cement” – the Thing that would bind them together and raise them above themselves and their petty stories.
Theoretically he’s completely right.
Satprem: Oh, yes! And it’s odd, because when he told me about it, I could almost see it, I saw it. He’s a fellow who could pull it off.
Yes, he has the power. But why doesn’t he meet Roger?
Satprem: He told me: “Must I speak to Roger about it?” Because he says it’s a problem: if I say something to Roger about it, he is going to withdraw or… So I said, don’t say anything to Roger; tell Mother and Mother will say what has to be done.
I’m going to see Roger tomorrow, I can tell him. Paolo is also an architect, isn’t he?
Satprem: You are the only one who has any authority over Roger.
Yes… no, if I tell him, “Do it”, he won’t say no, but he won’t do it! He has to be convinced… All that I can do is tell him I’m aware of the idea, that I fully approve of it and I’m asking him to see Paolo and come to an.understanding. But I think Paolo has a power of conviction in him.
Satprem: Yes, in any case, when he was speaking to me, I felt the inspiration and the “thing” which was ready to come.
It is ready to come! I’ve known it for a long time! It’s there (gesture above), waiting.
Satprem: Well, he’s in touch with that.
Oh, yes.
Satprem: As he was speaking you could feel he had touched the true thing. While the rest of them are only thinking of how to bring in millions and make propaganda – they’re going about it completely the wrong way…
[passage omitted]
I’m afraid they don’t even have the land. That’s the difficulty. Because the centre of the city has been fixed and there’s still a large part of this centre which belongs, I think, to the government, and they’re in the process of negotiating to get it.
[silence]
Roger’s idea is to have an island in the centre surrounded by water, running water which will be used for the city’s whole water supply; and when it has gone through the city, it will be routed to a mill and will be used to irrigate all the environing agriculture. So, this centre is like an islet, and in this centre there is what we had at first called the Matri Mandir – which I always see as a very big, absolutely empty room, you see, and it gets light from above; and that is arranged in such a way that the light which comes from above is focused on a place where there would be… that which we want to put as the centre of the city. First we had thought of Sri Aurobindo’s symbol, but we can put anything we like. Like that, with a ray of light which always strikes it – which turns and turns, you understand, with the sun. If that is well done, it will be very good.
And then below, so that people can sit down and meditate or simply rest, but NOTHING – nothing but something comfortable underneath so they can sit down without getting tired, probably with some kind of pillars that would act as back rests at the same time. Something like that. And that is what I always SEE. And a rather high chamber so the sun can enter as a RAY, according to the hour of the day, and strike the centre which will be there.
If this is done, it will be very good.
And so, for the rest I don’t care, they can do what they like. At first they had thought of making a room for me, but I will never go there so it’s not worth the trouble, it’s quite useless. And look after this islet, it was understood that there would be a house for Huta, who would like to be there simply as the guardian….
So Roger had arranged a system of bridges to link it to the other bank. And the other bank would be composed entirely of gardens all around. These gardens… we had thought of twelve gardens (of dividing the distance by twelve), of making twelve gardens, each concentrated on one thing: a particular state of consciousness and the flowers that represent it.
And then the twelfth garden would be in the water, around (not around, but beside) the Mandir and with the Banyan tree which is there. That’s what is at the centre of the city. And there, there would be a repetition of the twelve gardens which surround it with the flowers similarly arranged… There are two Americans here now, a husband and wife, and the man has studied over there (in America) for more than a year, I think, to learn how to make gardens, and he has come with this knowledge. And I told him to begin right away to make the plans for the inner garden: they’re working on it. And then the reply is always the same: but we don’t have any money!
Satprem: But, Sweet Mother, what I believe and what Paolo has also touched on, is that if those… let us say 20 or 50 Aurovilians sincerely unite their hearts in the construction of this pyramid or temple of the new world, it WILL ATTRACT money, millions.
It should.
Satprem: They will come. It’s not “looking for millions” that’s needed, it’s first to unite the consciousnesses around something.
Yes.
Satprem: That’s the key to the millions.
You’ll explain to Paolo everything I said…. That way we would have something which is really very good.
But obviously what is needed… There are material difficulties: for the islet, water is needed – naturally, otherwise it’s not an islet! As far as water goes, it will have to be transformed [i.e. by desalination] – there isn’t enough underground water.
Satprem: There’s not enough water?
There’s water, but just enough for one or two houses; in short there isn’t enough water to create a permanent stream. They would have to convert sea water. In Israel they have found a way to do it economically (we even have brochures about it), but you understand, “economical” for a city, not for an individual! And so we have to get water in order to make this islet, that’s the difficulty.
Satprem: But before building the islet, we can already start building the “temple” itself…. You have to begin by picking up a stone.
Yes, we could do that.
Satprem: That’s what is important, that people pick up the first stone with their hands and then set it down, and that they unite in so doing – because they will never come together through their little huts and their little stories.
Yes, that would be a lot better.
Satprem: Oh yes, of course!
Obviously, logically, or rather psychologically, it’s an error to build the outside first and the centre afterwards.
Satprem: Oh, yes!
But how to make him understand that?…
Satprem: Since we want to do “something else”, the least we can do is have trust in something else.
Yes, I’m going to speak to Roger about it tomorrow and I’m going to ask him to see Paolo. I think that to a certain extent Paolo can bring in the money, if he’s interested.
Good.
That is, to begin building even before there’s an islet.
[silence]
For the outside of this sort of temple, Roger had been thinking of making a big lotus. But then the interior, the play of light, I don’t know if it will be possible with the form of a lotus.
If they could both collaborate… If they could both get together and if one of them could always be here, one of the two: sometimes one, sometimes the other, that one of the two is always here – with a single plan that they would make, it would go much faster, a hundred times faster.
Satprem: And it would seize people’s hearts.
Yes.
That idea of a ray of sunlight… when I look, right away that’s what I see. And a ray of sunlight which would enter at all hours of the day – it would be arranged in such a way that it comes all the time [gesture following the movement of the sun]. And then there would be something, a symbol, which would be at once upright so that it can be seen from all sides, and flat so as to receive in full light – what?… And may it not become a religion, for the love of heaven!
Satprem: Yes.
[silence]
You know that I’m in touch with some Ethiopians (I think it is a country which has remained the most Christian on earth). And there’s a boy [Tekeste] who is secretary to the embassy in Delhi (the Ethiopian Embassy), who is utterly taken, and so… [laughing] his birthday was two days ago and he came with a gift…. Something in wood, in ebony, as big as this; on one side was my picture and on the other side there was a picture of Sri Aurobindo, and in the middle there was a cross… in silver. And on the cross, at the top, where the junction two arms meet, there was on one side my symbol and on the other side Sri Aurobindo’s symbol… What’s in his head?!
Satprem: It’s frightful!
And naturally as soon as I saw him he put that on my lap…. It was this big. As soon as I saw it, there immediately came [gesture of massive descent] like that, like an answer to the will to transform Christianity. And it was so powerful, there was such a powerful vibration in it that I had the feeling it was IN THE PROCESS…. The cross is the symbol of transformation, you see: Matter [transversal gesture] penetrated by the Spirit, and the junction = the transformation. And a tremendous Force came, like, so that this cross might truly become… the flower of transformation.
But I didn’t say anything to him! And he himself doesn’t know, that is, he didn’t think of it – he didn’t think, he did it.
He had written to the Emperor to tell him about Auroville, and there was an answer. Did I show it to you?.. [Mother looks through some papers] It’s all the way down, right at the bottom….
“I have written to my Emperor Haile Selassie I, about Auroville International Township aim, and Ethiopia to be the second country to support this idea. He has written me a good letter. In his letter he has appreciated and admired your work very much. I wish you to bless him for peace of mind, good health to live long – peace for his people.”
It doesn’t commit you to anything! At least it shows goodwill.
[Mother puts the papers near her back under a pile of files]
I keep all this with me because it keeps the contact.
[silence]
There is not the shadow of a doubt that the Force is working. And there is such a great… (how to say it?) a highly active will: NO RELIGION, no religion, no religious forms. And right, immediately people… So that’s why I’ve left people veryfree. That was why I did not insist on the construction of the centre first, because it would be that old cathedral again, that old temple, all that old stuff right away (Mother makes a geture of planting in the earth), and then everything gets organized around that: religion – we DON’T WANT religion.
Satprem: Yes, but we “make it into” something besides religion.
But they don’t make it anything! It’s in the people! They are so small, they need a religion, or at least they believe in it.
They need it, I see that, I’ve received more letters which I’m answering…. [Mother looks in vain through some other papers near her] Every day they come in. And Sri Aurobindo wrote some wonderful things about it… Very recently (yesterday or the day before) I answered a question about an “Aphorism” of Sri Aurobindo in which he says that atheism was NECESSARY because of the religions and all their misdeeds. They asked me a question and I answered that too.
Men are still very small.
But an interesting sign: from northern Europe, from Sweden and Norway and Denmark, some priests are writing to me; one of them is the head of a Church; another is the head of a convent. They are writing to ask and say that they want to collaborate in order to get out of… It’s very strong up there. One or two of them sent me their photos, asking me to help them. And they’re doing a work, they’re doing a work for Auroville over there. That means that…
But even our children have such stupid reactions! There’s a girl here who wrote to me because I had mentioned to her that the Consciousness had descended on earth, had been concentrated on the earth in order to help men prepare for the transformation; she said, “How is it that men have been left without help for such a long time?” That’s enough to make you burst into tears! They have had their whole education here and they can still ask questions like that!.. I had to hold myself back from telling her: you’re really a fool!
[silence]
Who would be capable of finding a way to realize that?… Because there is no lack of sunshine here (obviously there are some days when there isn’t any, but anyway there are so many days when there is); so that from every side, from any angle, the ray falls [on the symbol]… So that it’s arranged like that. It’s a question of geometry.
You can speak to Paolo because if he had an idea…
Satprem: When he spoke, I felt he could catch that.
Yes. And that’s what’s needed: something, a symbol – we’ll find out what is needed, we’ll see – obviously like an altar, but… what? A symbol which simultaneously receives light directly from above and laterally.
And then, no other windows, you understand? All the rest in a sort of half-light, and that like a light… It would be good, it can be very good. I would like someone who can feel that. I don’t know at all if Roger is capable of feeling it, Paolo is capable.
And if it were well done, it would already be very interesting for people. It would give a concrete form to something…. People would start to say that it is a religion of the sun! [laughter] Oh, you know, I’m used to EVERY sort of foolishness!
[silence]
The idea of Roger and those around him is to have industries, which are capable of making money for Auroville, then…
Satprem: They’re mistaken, they’re wrong.
That means that instead of its being done quickly, it will take centuries.
Satprem: And then, it starts off from old ideas, the old principles.
Yes.
Satprem: One has to begin an another basis.
It’s due to fear of religions.
Satprem: We can very well do it not as a religion but as a symbol of the new world.
Yes. We need somebody who understands it – maybe Paolo will understand? Satprem: Yes, certainly! And he would have the capacity to convince, I think.
[silence]
Yes, I’ll see Paolo. It would be better if he comes on a day when you’re there because I’m afraid I may not hear well… It bothers them a lot to have to talk so loudly. So, shall we say Saturday? And I’m going to speak to Roger tomorrow, that is, I’m going to tell him to see Paolo, who has some excellent ideas, so that he comes to an understanding with him.
You know, it’s very simple; we’re going to try to make Roger understand and create a collaboration. Roger won’t say no to me – but he won’t do anything! You understand, it’s like that! But at least, if he can do it, if they can agree, if it’s agreed with Roger, then it’s very good, there are no difficulties. But if he can’t, then Paolo will have to be here when Roger isn’t, and then we’ll have to do it!… You understand, for me it’s like that! [Mother laughs] Because Roger has enough work to do (he has a tremendous task). We’re not taking any work away from him, it’s rather that if he refuses to do it, we’ll do it, that’s all. I’m going to see if they can agree.
Now, for me things are no longer exclusive, not at all. I see very well the possibility of using the most contradictory elements AT THE SAME TIME… with a little skill, that’s all. It’s not exclusive. I don’t say. “oh, not that!” No, no, no: everything, everything all together. That’s what I want: to succeed in creating a place where opposites can unite.
That…
Unless that can be done… (gesture of turning around in a circle) it goes on and on and on.
It’s good. Yes, I understand: the thing is to build the centre, even if we can’t make an islet.
Perhaps Paolo will be able to convince Roger. I’m going to speak to him tomorrow, to start off the new year.
* * *