Books matching: music as a form of expression
8 result(s)
- #1
Save:Accordion Crimes is gorgeously written, deeply researched, and brilliantly ambitious, but its grimness and loose structure will be polarizing. It's a must for lovers of literary fiction and American history, but not a warm-and-fuzzy read.
Accordion Crimes by Annie Proulx is a novel that follows the journey of a green accordion as it passes through the hands of various owners, each representing a different aspect of American immigrant life. The book delves into the interconnected stories of these owners, exploring themes of tragedy, prejudice, and cultural diversity. Proulx's writing style is described as detailed, intricate, and filled with historical context, offering a vivid portrayal of the struggles and hardships faced by immigrants in America.
It was as if his eye were an ear and a crackle went through it each time he shot a look at the accordion. The instrument rested on the bench, lacquer gleaming like wet sap. Rivulets of light washed mo...1996•451 pages - #2
Save:'The Gig' in the series 'Speechless' by author Kim Fielding follows the romance between Drew Clifton and Travis Miller. Drew, a former novelist with aphasia, and Travis, an unemployed man with a permanent eye injury, navigate their challenges with the support and love they have for each other. The story showcases their journey to thrive and succeed in the face of adversity, with Travis encouraging Drew to express himself through music. As they perform at a local coffeehouse, they meet another couple, Dylan Warner and Chris Nock, who also seem to have a strong bond. The interactions between the characters and the heartwarming support they provide each other create a touching narrative of love and resilience.
delves into themes of overcoming personal barriers, finding courage in the face of uncertainty, and the power of love and support in navigating life's challenges. Through the characters of Drew, Travis, Dylan, and Chris, the story explores the complexities of relationships, communication, and acceptance, ultimately showing that with the right companionship, individuals can find strength to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles.
May 2013 - #3
Save:A gripping, emotionally raw slice of Black history and artistic struggle that shines both on stage and on screen. If you love character-driven drama, it's well worth your time.
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is a powerful play set in the 1920s, focusing on the life of Ma Rainey, a black blues singer, and her band during a recording session in Chicago. The story explores conflicts between Ma and her ambitious trumpet player, Levee, as well as tensions with the white producers who seek to control their music. The characters engage in rich dialogue, revealing their personal struggles and desires amid the backdrop of systemic racism in the music industry.
The writing style of August Wilson is marked by authentic dialogue and deep character development, allowing readers to connect with the characters’ emotions and experiences. The play captures the spiritual and material struggles faced by African Americans, enriched by dynamic interactions and poignant monologues. Wilson's ability to weave personal stories with broader social themes makes the play both thought-provoking and impactful.
- #4
Save:A cerebral, poetic novella for fans of introspective and experimental literary fiction - brilliantly observed but best for patient, thoughtful readers looking for more than just a story.
A Greater Music by Bae Suah is a deeply introspective novel that explores the complex interplay between language, culture, and personal relationships. The story revolves around a Korean narrator who reflects on her time in Germany, where she navigates her fraught relationships with a German tutor named M and her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Joachim. The narrative is nonlinear and shifts between memories and present experiences, creating a meditative pace that invites the reader into the protagonist's psychological landscape. Themes of alienation, cultural barriers, and the power of music as a language are intricately woven throughout the novel.
The writing style is characterized by eloquent prose and keen observations. Bae's use of language is thoughtful, demanding careful attention as it blends essayistic elements with fiction. The characters are complex and often unlikable, adding a layer of challenge for the reader. The novel presents a vivid exploration of the struggles of communication and understanding in a foreign context, where the narrator's introspective voice often conveys a sense of melancholy and existential reflection. Overall, A Greater Music combines rich detail with a unique narrative structure, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read.
Greater music, the voice said. The voice governed the whole world under the rain-streaked, cloud-wreathed sky. Dense with moisture, the air pressed in through the open car window, forming droplets on...2003•139 pages - #5
Save:A delightfully oddball, funny, and honest story about friendship, music, and finding your own place in the world - perfect for fans of quirky, character-driven coming-of-age novels.
The House of Tomorrow by Peter Bognanni follows the story of Sebastian, a teenager living with his new age spiritual grandmother in a geodesic dome. Their isolated life is disrupted when his grandmother suffers a stroke, leading Sebastian to be taken in by the dysfunctional Whitcomb family. Through this unexpected friendship, Sebastian explores themes of family, friendship, faith, and love, all while navigating the complexities of teenage life, punk rock music, and first love.
The narrative is rich with quirky humor, poignant moments, and heartfelt interactions between characters, particularly Sebastian and Jared, who bond over their shared experiences as outcasts. Bognanni's writing style creates a vibrant and authentic world, where themes of coming of age, self-discovery, and the importance of human connection are explored through a blend of wit, empathy, and musical references.
EVERY SINGLE HUMAN BEING IS PART OF A GRAND universal plan. That’s what my Nana always says. We’re not alive just to lounge around and contemplate our umbilicus. We’re metaphysical beings! Open us up,...2009•361 pages - #6
Save:A charming return to Mercedes Lackey’s bardic world with enjoyable themes and adventure - just beware of the digital edition’s typo overload and a story that doesn’t always sing as sweetly as its predecessor.
'The Robin & the Kestrel' follows the story of Robin and Kestrel, who are on a mission to change the absurd laws set by the Church that make it illegal to play music unless part of the Bard Guild. The couple faces the challenge of being two against a great power but seek help to take down the Church. The plot unfolds with a mix of excitement and boredom, tackling issues like prejudice against Free Bards, gypsies, and non-humans, making the book both cliché and thrilling. Despite some OCR errors in the e-book version, the writing style is described as relatively light and fluffy, offering a fast and easy read.
Jonny Brede—aka "Free Bard Kestrel"—shook mud and cold, cold water out of his eyes. He grunted as he heaved another shovelful of soft mud from beneath the wheel of their foundered travel-wagon. And th...August 1993•407 pages
(Also, see 99 recommendations for the series Bardic Voices ) - #7
Save:A modern, music-filled retelling of the prodigal son, full of heart and hope - perfect for anyone craving a moving story of second chances.
"Long Way Gone" by Charles Martin is a heartwarming tale that follows the journey of Cooper O'Connor, a prodigal son of a preacher, as he navigates through life's ups and downs. The story delves into themes of love, loss, redemption, and the power of music in healing broken hearts. Through vivid storytelling and lyrical prose, the author explores the resilience of the human heart, taking readers on an emotional road trip from the Colorado mountains to Nashville and back. As Cooper grapples with his past mistakes and regrets, he embarks on a soul-searching journey to find his way back home, both physically and spiritually.
The narrative unfolds in three distinct parts, revealing Cooper's struggles, successes, and ultimately, his quest for forgiveness and redemption. With a cast of memorable characters, including Cooper's father, Daly, and Blondie, the story weaves together elements of family dynamics, music business, and personal growth. As Cooper confronts his demons and faces the consequences of his actions, readers are drawn into a poignant tale of self-discovery and second chances, culminating in a powerful message of hope and reconciliation.
October 2016•329 pages Blunt, passionate, and deeply moving, this is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand race and privilege in America; be prepared to feel uncomfortable, reflect, and maybe be changed.
Michael Eric Dyson's 'Tears We Cannot Stop: A Sermon to White America' is a powerful and emotional book that addresses the issues of white privilege and white racism in America. Written in the form of a sermon, Dyson speaks directly to his white readers, offering insights on how they can make personal reparations to African Americans. The book combines Dyson's experience as both a pastor and a professor, providing a moving and deeply meaningful exploration of race relations in America.
“Here,” she said, “in this here place, we flesh; flesh that weeps, laughs; flesh that dances on bare feet in grass. Love it. Love it hard. Yonder they do not love your flesh. They despise it. They don...January 2017•233 pages
