The 677 documents of this correspondence from 1951 to 1970 are a unique testimony. Paul Celan, a poet of great discretion, opens up here in the most private of his relationships. Vividly, although often only in connection with the commentary, not only the origins and background of many of his poems are revealed. His relationship with Germany is also depicted, a country that remains so foreign to him despite his German mother tongue during his travels. At the same time, these letters document the life path of the artist Gisèle Celan-Lestrange; they trace her artistic development from her beginnings as a painter to her significant graphic works and collaboration with Paul Celan. The desperate phases of this marriage are also vividly portrayed, including Celan's breakdowns and hospitalizations, the renewing hopes, and the enduring love until the very end.