This Rainbow Minute was read by Candace Gingrich.

Gertrude Stein was born in Pennsylvania in 1874. As a young woman, she discovered a passion for writing and moved to Paris. Her books were always controversial, but she became famous in light of her persona – a mannish, avant-garde intellectual.

In 1907, she met Alice B. Toklas, who would become her lifetime companion. Since Gertrude was an avid arts patron, their home became a popular hangout for famous artists and writers such as Picasso and Hemmingway. She would lead lofty discussion about art, while Alice cooked and kept house

In the 30s, they traveled to America to promote one of Gertrude's books, as the world's most famous lesbian couple. The radiance of their 39-year relationship was captured in Gertrude's written word:

How prettily we swim – not in water – not on land – but in love.