'Orfeo' by Richard Powers is a novel that follows the story of Peter Els, a retired music professor who delves into DIY genetic engineering to create a bacteria-based musical composition. When the police mistake his experiments for bioterrorism after a 911 call, Els goes on a journey to revisit his past, encountering lost family members and reflecting on his life in music. The book weaves together themes of music, science, relationships, and the intersection of art and technology, all against the backdrop of a post-9/11 culture of suspicion and surveillance. Through flashbacks and present-day events, the novel explores Els' passion for music, his struggles, and his quest for peace and self-understanding.
The narrative of 'Orfeo' is a blend of intricate descriptions of classical and avant-garde music, reflections on the creative process, and a character-driven story that delves into the protagonist's relationships and personal history. The book draws parallels to the myth of Orpheus, portraying Els as a modern-day musician on a journey to reconnect with his past and find redemption in music and memories. The writing style combines rich emotional depth with intellectual exploration, offering readers a poignant and thought-provoking narrative that seamlessly intertwines music, science, and human experience.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings for Orfeo include themes of government surveillance, loss of loved ones, fear of authority, and existential dread. These elements may be distressing to some readers.
From The Publisher:
From the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Overstory, an emotionally charged novel inspired by the myth of Orpheus.
"Bravo, Richard Powers, for hitting so many high notes with Orfeo and contributing to the fraction of books that really matter." -Heller McAlpin, NPR
In Orfeo, composer Peter Els opens the door one evening to find the police on his doorstep. His home microbiology lab-the latest experiment in his lifelong attempt to find music in surprising patterns-has aroused the suspicions of Homeland Security. Panicked by the raid, Els turns fugitive and hatches a plan to transform this disastrous collision with the security state into an unforgettable work of art that will reawaken its audience to the sounds all around it.
Ratings (1)
It Was OK (1) |
Reader Stats (3):
Read It (1) | |
Want To Read (2) |
What can you read after
Orfeo?
About the Author:
Richard Powers has published thirteen novels. He is a MacArthur Fellow and received the National Book Award. His most recent book, The Overstory, won the Pulitzer Prize in Fiction. He lives in the Great Smoky Mountains.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
