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Hermann Hesse's Gertrude and Knut Hamsun's Victoria share a common bond about man's attempt to fight fate, fate's conspiracy against man in his search for inner peace and lasting love. Kuhn, the student, aspiring composer and central character, seeks direction and purpose, understanding, and eventually, solace, through his life struggles, which lead him towards the path of unrequited love, an attempt at suicide, success and fame, death of close friends, and finally to peaceful resignation.

Gertrude, written in Hesse's familiar lyrical style, is a novel that I strongly recommend to anyone who loves both, classical music and beautiful prose. His mastery of language makes the reading of this novel (and some others) seem almost effortless. His language is always vivid, colorful, flowing, and harmonious. Hesse's keen understanding and knowledge of the technical/theoretical aspects of classical music, such as the sonata form and the opera, make this book more enjoyable than ever.

This is a work of art by a maestro, where every word or phrase resonates beautifully, ready to be heard by discerning lovers of high culture.