Mozart's Letters, Mozart's Life
by Robert Spaethling

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Book Reviews of Mozart's Letters, Mozart's Life

Book Review: An absolute must buy
Summary: 5 Stars

"....We left Today Count Firmian's place to go home, and when we came to our street, we opened the door to our house, and what do you think happened? we went inside. Farewell my little lung. I kiss you, my liver, and remain at all times, my stomach,your unworthy brother Wolfgang , frater, please,please,dear Sister, something is biting me, come and scratch me".

What on earth was all that about? That was an excerpt of a letter from Mozart on tour with his father in Milan around the age of 19/20, to his Sister in Salzburg. It just gives an example of how wacky Mozart really was. The author of this book, has constructed it in chronological context so that it's telling a story. A development, a flowering of Mozart and his attitudes from the age of 13 till his last years. It even goes as far as remaining true to the spelling mistakes and grammar odditys that Mozart was known for, not having a formal education. Also, including all the crude uncensored sentences.

Many people look at the 1984 movie "Amadeus" and think the portrayal of Mozart in the movie, is sacreligious and an insult to such a genius. It is innacurate at times (certainly in terms of historical events in Mozart's life). But,to be honest the more and more you read the letters of Mozart, the more the portrayal of him in the movie, seems to fit reality quite well (even though it may over play the reckless side of him at times). As the book notes, Mozart never intended letters for publication, so we are snooping in one private conversations. It's the ultimate music lovers voyeurism. Mozart seemed to be as human as anyone else. Passionate,bored,sleepy,and furious at times. He also seems to be someone who was eternally wacky and full of love for his family,no matter what was happening.

I would be very very suprised if anyone would be turned off listening to Mozart's music after reading this. If they did, then they are not true appreciators of Mozart in my opinion. Observing his private life through his letters will make you understand Mozart and his music so much more. It removes the sanctimonious etheral glow from him,and shows him as just an ordinary guy who enjoyed his art, and worked damn hard indeed.

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