The mixed-media artwork, Firstly, the sharp things you have written to me have not annoyed me, is inspired by an extract from a letter written in Urdu by an Indian soldier, Jemadar Indar Singh (Sikh) to his compatriot, Chattar Singh (Ludhiana District, Punjab). The letter dated 15^th September 1916, was possibly sent to France from India during the First World War. This letter along with other letters, is part of the book, ‘Indian Voices of the Great War: Soldiers’ Letters, 1914-18’ by David Omissi. An extract from the letter reads, “Firstly, the sharp things you have written to me have not annoyed me. Don’t be grieved at my death because I shall die arms in hand, wearing the warrior’s clothes. This is the most happy death that anyone can die. I am very sorry that I have not been able to discharge my obligations towards my family because God has called me already”.

Firstly, the sharp things you have written to me have not annoyed me, was developed during Baptist Coelho’s year-long Artist-in-Residence, supported by and at Fondation Fiminco, Romainville, 2021-22. The residency was also supported by Fonds de Dotation Buchet Ponsoye, Paris; Institut Français, India. The artwork was first exhibited as part of the group exhibition, Sa mémoire dans la maison vide, souffle comme une brise dans les rideaux blancs at Fondation Fiminco, Romainville, from 2 June to 3 July 2022. The exhibition was curated by Yomna Osman.