Old Fogy His Musical Opinions and Grotesques   By: James Huneker (1857-1921)

In "Old Fogy His Musical Opinions and Grotesques," James Huneker manages to provide a gripping and insightful look into the world of classical music, interwoven with his unique and occasionally eccentric perspectives.

From the very beginning, Huneker's vivid writing style draws readers into his world. With a masterful command of language and an eccentric sense of humor, he paints a picture of the intriguing characters and situations he encounters within the realm of music. Huneker's clever use of language keeps readers engaged and entertained throughout the book, as he describes not only his own experiences but also the idiosyncrasies and quirks of the musical world.

One of the strengths of this book lies in Huneker's ability to convey his genuine passion for classical music. His enthusiasm is infectious, as he delves into the complexities and nuances of various compositions and performances. His sheer knowledge of the subject shines through in every chapter, making this book a must-read for classical music enthusiasts.

Furthermore, while the book primarily focuses on classical music, Huneker manages to infuse it with a range of engaging anecdotes and stories that appeal to a wider audience. With his sharp wit and a keen eye for human behavior, he brings to life the fascinating personalities that populate the world of music, creating a sense of connection between the reader and the characters he encounters.

However, it is worth noting that "Old Fogy His Musical Opinions and Grotesques" may not be everyone's cup of tea. Huneker's writing style is rich and lavish, which may feel overwhelming or overly ornate for some readers. Additionally, his strong opinions and unabashed criticisms might polarize readers who have differing perspectives on classical music.

In conclusion, James Huneker's "Old Fogy His Musical Opinions and Grotesques" is a captivating and informative exploration of classical music, unique in its blend of erudition and eccentricity. With its masterful storytelling and rich descriptions, this book manages to elevate classical music beyond mere notes on a page, allowing readers to appreciate its beauty and intricacies on a deeper level. Whether you are a seasoned classical music lover or just starting your journey into this genre, Huneker's book offers a thought-provoking and entertaining journey worth embarking upon.

First Page:

My friend the publisher has asked me to tell you what I know about Old Fogy, whose letters aroused much curiosity and comment when they appeared from time to time in the columns of The Etude. I confess I do this rather unwillingly. When I attempted to assemble my memories of the eccentric and irascible musician I found that, despite his enormous volubility and surface frankness, the old gentleman seldom allowed us more than a peep at his personality. His was the expansive temperament, or, to employ a modern phrase, the dynamic temperament. Antiquated as were his modes of thought, he would bewilder you with an excursion into latter day literature, and like a rift of light in a fogbank you then caught a gleam of an entirely different mentality... Continue reading book >>