Psychological Perspective on Camille Saint-Saens

In his long career, the "old fashioned" French composer Saint Saëns (1835-1921) managed to alienate many people. He also suffered from a "woman complex" which influenced his works, according to the author. In this biography, Ring (emeritus, psychology, U. of Connecticut) analyzes the personality behind a legacy now witnessing a revival of interest beyond The Carnival of the Animals and Danse Macabre. Quirky anecdotes about Ring's love of Saint Saéns' music and a film-making fantasy about him conclude the book. Photos show Camille from his first public piano recital to a concert in his late seventies; his mother; the main object of his unrequited love; and protégé Gabriel Fauré. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR