Critics have often described Hungarian composer Franz Liszt’s (1811–86) music as showy and bombastic, but in this book the British concert pianist Roberts seeks the poetry behind Liszt’s compositions. The book seeks Liszt’s influences (which Roberts argues include Petrarch’s Sonnets, Goethe’s Faust, and the poetry of Lord Byron). Frequently, Roberts has as much (or even more) to say about these literary works as about Liszt’s compositions. The text is accompanied by numerous illustrations and citations from Liszt’s scores. Readers looking for a musical biography of Liszt will find here instead an excursion through European culture of the 19th century and earlier. Roberts’ accessible style reads like a conversation with his erudite friends.

Library Journal

In this volume, concert pianist Paul Roberts examines the role of literature in shaping Franz Liszt's piano music…. [R]eaders who have not studied Liszt's music should find the book diverting, and it may inspire further investigation…Lower- and upper-division undergraduates; general readers.

Choice Reviews

This dazzling and richly informed book finds francophile Paul Roberts veering off to write about Liszt and the literary sources behind his piano music.

International Piano Magazine

No pianist interpreting the music of Liszt should deny themselves the wealth of inspiration and insight that this book offers. It is a duty of anyone who performs his piano music to understand the spirit in which it was written and to be able to see its multi-dimensionality. Paul Roberts has performed a priceless service to those who are sympathetic to Liszt’s genius.

Marc-André Hamelin, internationally acclaimed pianist

This book reflects a deep understanding of Liszt based on a lifetime’s experience and conveys the broader intersection of prose and poetry with art and music, and in the end, with life. The writing is that of a true poet, and I shall be returning again and again to its pages.

Craig Sheppard, chair of keyboard, University of Washington

This is a moving portrait of Liszt, revealed with eloquence and passion. It is stimulating and accessible, and a must read for artists and music lovers.

Alon Goldstein, pianist, distinguished visiting professor, University of Missouri - Kansas City