3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Sondheim Isn't Easy, June 19, 2000
This review is from: Art Isn't Easy (Hardcover)
This book is an in-depth study of Stephen Sondheim's Broadway musicals, all of them up until ASSASSINS, which did not make it on Broadway, but is nevertheless included. Each chapter is devoted to one show, with a brief first chapter on his three pre- ANYONE CAN WHISTLE shows: WEST SIDE STORY, FORUM, and, DO I HEAR A WALTZ.
Using Sondheim's lyrics as the main medium, Gordon analyzes the characters and themes in each show. Through her analysis, one can more fully appreciate Sondheim's groundbreaking ingenuity and artistry.
This book's largest asset is Gordon's collaboration with Sondheim, himself. Asides from a well-researched body of quotes, there are quotes from the dramatist/musician that are exclusive to this text.
I have two complaints about this book: first, one cannot fully appreciate/ analyze Sondheim without studying, also, his music-- this book deals mainly wiht his lyrics. Second, Gordon's perspective seems, at times, a little too narrow: too much praise and not enough criticism.
Nevertheless, it is the most in-depth study of the kind on Sondheim. Anyone interested in him is bound to gain something from this well-written analysis.
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