Pushed by his father's ambitions and surrounded by expectations about a piano career despite his lack of talent, egocentric Simon Silber, as observed by associate Norm Fayrewether, struggles with the frustrations of his art and his quest for brilliance. 10,000 first printing.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
Review:
The publishers are describing this debut as 'a wickedly funny commentary on art, genius, jealousy and failure'. Which it is - to a point. The conceit is very promising: failed philosopher with delusions of grandeur answers want ad for composer seeking biographer. Norman Fayrewether Jr's lumbering commentary on the short life and unperformed music of Simon Silber is, inevitably, lacking in insight, but as he exacts revenge on the now late genius he unwittingly reveals a great deal about himself. Most of the humour within requires a certain level of musical knowledge, but Miller's is a novel you very much want to like. By mid-point, however, there's an inescapable sense that he's trying too hard. And the joke wears thin. Somewhere within lurks a good short story, but the novel hints at interesting things to come.
About the Author:
Christopher Miller lives in St Louis, Missouri, USA. This is his first novel.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
- PublisherHoughton Mifflin Harcourt
- Publication date2002
- ISBN 10 061814336X
- ISBN 13 9780618143368
- BindingHardcover
- Number of pages232
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Rating