Natalie Clifford Barney and Romaine Brooks had one of the more interesting romantic relationships of the expatriate women of the Left Bank. Both were very wealthy, which allowed them the freedom to travel as they pleased. Natalie was (in)famous as a "seductress of women," but she and Romaine spent many happy years together. Natalie's sexual freedom was uncommon in women during that time period, but she made no apologies for her romantic exploits. She was a poet and active in lively political, often feminist, discussions. Her Temple of Friendship was home to many such gatherings. Romaine's passion was her painting. She confidently ignored the artistic trends of the day and explored her own methods. Both women disregarded societal norms in favor of pursuing their art and their love.
(Weiss 100-141)
(Weiss 100-141)
