#crncb

[returntomytilene]

‘Carmen Rossi was a simple, earthy soul who loved sex and made no bones about it, and she helped transform Natalie from a groping schoolgirl into an exquisite lover. In later years Natalie’s lovers would write of her “famous hands,” her tongue, her bravado, her tenderness—and all of it started with Carmen. Rossi also kicked off Barney’s lifelong desire to write of love through poetry. Left gasping by their lovemaking, Natalie realized that only art could perpetuate the beauty they experienced together, and “it was thus necessary for me to become a poet of love.”’

— Suzanne Rodriguez, Wild Heart: A Life

[returntomytilene]

‘In the bedroom, which Carmen [Rossi] shared each night with her quasi husband, Natalie had a sexual revelation. With the exception of Eva [Palmer], who “bends to my least desire,” her sexual experiences had so far been rushed and even childish. But now, with Carmen, Natalie understood the possibilities. “The young women with whom I’d been in love in the United States . . . hadn’t been true mistresses like Carmen,” she admitted. The next day Carmen sent her a carnation bouquet and a note pledging a lifetime of love. Natalie trembled with desire.’

— Suzanne Rodriguez, Wild Heart: A Life (2002)

[returntomytilene]

Carmen Rossi was a former model of Natalie Barney’s mother’s (Alice Pike Barney) paintings:

‘[Carmen] Rossi was a vibrant beauty with huge dark eyes, thick black hair, and a mouth that looked, Natalie thought, like a red carnation. She welcomed Natalie warmly, asked for the latest news about Alice, and then, without preamble, pulled the younger woman close. “I’ve always wanted to approach you in this way,” she murmured, “but I didn’t dare with your family around. Now, though, you’re on your own . . . If you like, pick me!” And with that she offered Natalie the beautiful carnation of her lips.’

— Suzanne Rodriguez, Wild Heart: A Life (2002)