![]() ![]() It would be impossible for the reader of this book to remain ignorant of the exactions of art. Ah! in these days of degenerate rivalries and bitter jealousies, let us welcome a proof of affection so tender as his "Life of Chopin"! ![]() His musical criticisms are refined and acute, but without repulsive technicalities or scientific terms, ever sparkling with the poetic ardor of the generous soul through which the discriminating, yet appreciative awards were poured. Liszt is a man of extensive culture, vivid imagination, and great knowledge of the world and, in addition to their high artistic value, his lines glow with poetic fervor, with impassioned eloquence. It is a matter of considerable interest to note how the nervous and agile fingers, accustomed to sovereign rule over the keys, handle the pen how the musician feels as a man how he estimates art and artists. ![]() It is a rare thing for a great artist to write on art, to leave the passionate worlds of sounds or colors for the colder realm of words rarer still for him to abdicate, even temporarily, his own throne, to stand patiently and hold aloft the blazing torch of his own genius, to illume the gloomy grave of another: yet this has Liszt done through love for Chopin. It is a short, glowing, and generous sketch, from the hand of Franz Liszt, (who, considered in the double light of composer and performer, has no living equal,) of the original and romantic Chopin the most ethereal, subtle, and delicate among our modern tone-poets. To a people, always prompt in its recognition of genius, and ready to sympathize in the joys and woes of a truly great artist, this work will be one of exceeding interest. Some even speculate that Princess Carolyne von Sayn-Wittgenstein, Liszt's mistress made a large contribution to this biography’s literary output. In addition, the biography doesn’t recite any reliable eyewitness accounts or forensic historiography which makes some readers question its credibility. Liszt often uses outdated language and a peculiar vocabulary to describe certain events or emotions. In fact, it is written in an old-fashioned style that confuses most modern readers by its affectation and mannerism. The book is also not an easy read as it was written by a figure from the 19th century. Some even question whether Liszt actually knew Chopin up close and personal and speculate that they were friends by association or acquaintances, rather than actual close friends. In fact, Liszt doesn’t recount any valuable biographical information about his fellow composer until page 58 of Chapter VI which makes most readers deem the book as lacking in the biographical sense. He even dedicated several pages just to extoll the virtues and beauty of Polish women, forgetting to recount important facts about Chopin and his life in the process. Liszt, however, tends to spend a lot of time rhapsodizing about tangential matters. It gives valuable insight into the composer’s personality and his opinions regarding the times surrounding him. Not only does this book render the life and works of Chopin but it also reveals a lot about its contemporary narrator, Franz Liszt. He even proceeds to analyze Chopin and to cite his flaws and weaknesses. It gives some interesting depictions of the royalty and elite of Poland at that era while shedding a light on how their culture of throwing dance parties was the motivation behind some of the various forms Chopin wrote. The book describes the polonaise and mazurka dances in great detail. Movie-still Photograph of the 1945 Film "A Song to Remember: The Life of Chopin" starred by Paul Muni, Merle Oberon and Cornel Wilde This biography is definitely a rare and amazing opportunity to read one outstanding musician interpreting the life and work of another talented musician. It is an interesting read for music specialists as it gives valuable insight into Chopin’s music while highlighting the psychological context of his artistry and revealing some obscure facets of his art. It is written from the perspective of an actual friend, admirer, and fellow composer of Chopin, Franz Liszt. The book was originally published in French in about 1863 and was later translated to English by Martha Cook. ![]() "Life of Chopin" is a biography of the renowned Polish composer and piano virtuoso, Fryderyk Chopin. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |