Maria Callas: The Woman Behind the Legend (35 page)

48

As he once again became a regular feature of her life . . .

49

 . . . forgiving him came more easily.

50

Pasolini could see the drama in Maria’s life reflected in the drama of
Medea
.

51

Maria’s love sustained Ari in his grief over the loss of his only son, Alexander. Christina openly bemoaned her role in having alienated Ari from Maria.

52

Her godfather, Leonidas Lantzounis, provided the family warmth and love she always longed for. For 27 years, she wrote her most revealing letters to him.

53

After the
succès d’estime
of
Medea
, her life was made up of ceremony and protocol, like the opening of a new opera season with her friend Wally Toscanini.

54

At a master class at Juilliard in 1972, Maria said of performing music: “You must make love to it.”

55

The future seemed barren until di Stefano briefly came back into her life as concert—and romantic—partner.

56

The audience thronged to the stage to throw her flowers, everyone’s eyes moist with emotion. As for Ari, he had begun divorce proceedings against Jackie.

57

Ari’s death struck her an almost mortal blow. Totally isolated, she prepared her will, waiting for the lightning to strike.

58

Maria’s funeral, September 20, 1977, the Greek Orthodox church on Rue Georges Bizet.

59

Mother and sister, Jackie, after the settlement of Maria’s $12-million estate plus future record royalties. Mother and Meneghini divided the fortune.

60

The Greek Minister of Culture [Nianias] scattered Maria’s ashes over the Aegean Sea, following her wishes: “I want to be burned. I don’t want to become a worm.”