Gayford offers some interesting theories (which you'll have to get the book to see) on why Van Gogh chose such a gruesome act as cutting off his own ear (and then delivering it in a box to a prostitute at the brothel). He also offers theories as to Van Gogh's form of mental illness in general. Gayford's conclusion is that Van Gogh probably suffered from bipolar disorder, or manic depression - a condition that would explain why Vincent could go from states of almost uncontrollable excitement and prolific creativeness down to states of dark depression in short periods of time. It might also explain why, even in his final years, Van Gogh could have "attacks" of madness that were followed by extended periods of sanity. In fact, after cutting his ear, Van Gogh did return to the Yellow House for a short period (Gauguin was gone) before another attack sent him from Arles for good. And one of Vincent's most famous works, The Starry Night, was produced during one of his stable periods after leaving Arles.
The thought of having two artists on the cusp of fame living together and producing their best works while one descends dramatically into mental illness would be too unbelievable of a plot if it weren't all true. In The Yellow House, Martin Gayford does the job of making you a fly on the wall as this unlikely plot unfolds. If you are an art lover, you'll find plenty here to enhance your understanding of these artists' works. (I wish I could see that Art Institute show all over again after having read the book.) But even if you're only passingly familiar with their work, the drama of their story makes this a book worth reading.
Article comments
1 - Gordon Hauptfleisch
Excellent, seamlessly engrossing review--thanks!
2 - Natalie Bennett
This article has been selected for syndication to Advance.net, which is affiliated with newspapers around the United States. Nice work!
3 - Gordon Hauptfleisch
Congratulations! This article has been selected as an Editors' Pick.
4 - Adam Jusko
Yay for me. Thanks much.
5 - Casey Klahn
I am in the middle of reviewing Gayford's book at my own blog. I argue with his views, but mostly have a spot of fun at just about everyone's expense. Thanks for your interesting review, as well.
6 - am
I would like to alert everyone to an incredible film I saw called The Eyes of Van Gogh directed by Alexander Barnett.
You can find details at The Eyes of Van Gogh or look for the title at IMDb.com, which is a film database.