Chopin - The Man and His Music

James Huneker's biographical classic reflects his extensive research on the life and works of Chopin (while studying to be a concert pianist). Huneker's acute perception of the composer's life provides a complete understanding of the historic circumstances surrounding Chopin's musical development as the ultimate lyric genius of the highest realm. His dignity of spirit alternated with petulance and serious depression. Though both proud and timid he led an isolated life, but it was in his art that he was bold and impassioned. In Part Two of this remarkable work Huneker presents a brilliant piece-by-piece review of the entire collection of Chopin's music, identifying him as the most poetic of composers.