Cavafy, Forster and the Eastern Question

The work of Constantine Cavafy and that of E.M. Forster are marked as much by difference as by similarity. The similarities derive largely from their shared tradition of Western Hellenism. The differences stem from their dissenting views over the evolution of Hellenism and its survival into the Hellenistic and Byzantine periods. Forster's hostility to Christianity and his Gibbonesque view of Byzantine culture were in marked contrast to Cavafy's view of Byzantium. In this light, Cavafy's final unfinished poems reflect a curious nostalgia and may be read as a subtle refutation of Forster. The Asia Minor Catastrophe further complicated their relationship. Despite his efforts to promote Cavafy, Forster showed great indiscretion by soliciting for his translation project the assistance of Arnold Toynbee, who had resigned from the Koraes Chair amidst controversy. Forster's own pro-Turkish stance undoubtedly alarmed Cavafy and caused him to be less than forthright in granting Forster publishing rights. Their literary friendship was greatly affected by the political events of the Balkans.