[Object loss and creativity - a demonstration based on Ferdinand Hodler's work cycle on Valentine Godé-Darel]

An attempt is made to present Hodler's cyclus of paintings on Valentine Godé-Darel against the background of certain considerations on "object deprivation and creativity". The importance of object deprivation for Hodler is explained on the basis of his biography. Against this background it becomes clear that the ultimate question is not why Hodler was able but why he was compelled to paint in the presence of suffering and death.