My Dear Friends: The Letters of Clara Codd

Clara Codd (1876-1971) was a well-known and beloved Theosophical Society lecturer, writer, world traveler and feminist icon. Born in England, she joined the Theosophical Society in 1903 and became the first National Lecturer of the English section in 1906. She eventually became one of Theosophical Society’s most popular international lecturers and gave talks and workshops on five continents. She was known to bring a welcome degree of warmth and intimacy to often difficult philosophical subjects, which was also reflected in her extensive correspondence.

Having developed a wide circle of friends around the world, Clara Codd began writing bi-monthly circular letters in order to keep in touch with her many friends and associates. From 1945 to 1968 she wrote 137 letters that included accounts of her personal experiences and observations, along with inspiration and practical advice about treading the spiritual path. Many of the letters are as timely today as when they were written. More than 300 people received letters every two months, which were typed, mimeographed and mailed by volunteers in South Africa, England and the United States.

This is the first time that Clara Codd’s letters are being published in one volume.