I have tried so hard

Vincent van Gogh to Theo van Gogh, from The Hague, 26 July 1882

When you come, I want to try and show you some watercolors done in different ways. Then we can see and talk over what you think is best. So I work regularly on that every day, and will continue to do so until you come.

. . . I am sure you know, Theo, that it is not more difficult to work in color than in black and white; indeed, perhaps the reverse, for as far as I can see, three-fourths of it depends on the original sketch, and almost the whole watercolor rests on its quality.

. . . I think the reason for my working so much more easily in watercolors is that I have tried so hard and for such a long time to draw more correctly.

Tersteeg called my activities a waste of time, but you will soon see that I have gained time. I already feel it now, and when you come, you will see it for yourself.

Letter 220
Translation courtesy of Robert Harrison.
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