The Story of a Genius

Name: The Story of a Genius
Author: Ossip Schubin

The narrative follows the life of Gesa von Zuylen, a gifted violinist born to a chorus singer and a Hungarian musician. Raised in the impoverished Rue Ravestein, Gesa's early life is marked by musical talent and a deep connection to his mother, who eventually abandons him. He is taken in by Gaston Delileo, a melancholic man with a tragic past linked to his wife, the famous singer Gualtieri. Under Delileo's care, Gesa flourishes musically, eventually becoming a celebrated violinist. As Gesa matures, he becomes enamored with Annette, Delileo's daughter, and they share a deep bond. However, Gesa's ambitions lead him to seek fame, and he becomes a protégé of the renowned pianist Alphonse de Sterny. Their relationship is complex, as de Sterny embodies both the heights of artistic success and the pitfalls of vanity and betrayal. Gesa's life takes a tragic turn when Annette dies unexpectedly, leaving him devastated. He spirals into despair, abandoning his musical aspirations and succumbing to alcoholism. His once-promising career fades as he becomes a shadow of his former self, living in obscurity and regret. Years later, Gesa learns of de Sterny's success with a composition that includes elements of Gesa's own work. Consumed by rage and betrayal, Gesa confronts de Sterny, but ultimately, he is left to grapple with his own failures and the loss of his love. The story concludes with Gesa living a life of quiet desperation, haunted by memories of his past and the dreams that never came to fruition.

By Ossip Schubin · First published 1910 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Biography, Philosophical Fiction · 19 chapters · 29,079 words

First lines

Monsieur Alphonse de Sterny will come to Brussels in November and conduct his Oratoria of "Satan."

This short notice in the _Independence Belge_ created a general sensation. The musicians shrugged, bit their lips, and sneered about the public's injustice toward home talent. The "great world," -- between ourselves the most unmusical "world" in the universe, -- very nearly stepped out of its aristocratic apathy. This is something which seldom happens to it in artistic matters, but now, for a whole week it talked nothing but de Sterny: of his octave playing a little, and of his love affairs a great deal. In autumn Brussels has so little to talk about!

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The Story of a Genius is listed on Textopian as a novel by Ossip Schubin, dated 1910 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Ossip Schubin
Date: 1910 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Biography, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Drama
Length: 29,079 words
Structure: 19 chapters, 473 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores complex themes and character development, typical of literary fiction.
Biography — It presents the life and experiences of a genius, fitting the biographical genre.
Philosophical Fiction — The narrative likely delves into philosophical questions regarding genius and creativity.
Historical Fiction — If set in a specific historical context, it may incorporate elements of historical fiction.