Composer

:

Alfred Schnittke

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1990 - 1991

Average_duration

:

113:15

"Life With an Idiot" is an opera composed by Alfred Schnittke in 1991. The plot revolves around a man named Viktor who is trapped in a room with an idiot. The idiot is a representation of Viktor's own subconscious, and the two engage in a battle of wills as Viktor tries to escape the room and the idiot tries to keep him there. The opera is divided into three movements, each of which represents a different stage in Viktor's struggle. The first movement is characterized by chaos and confusion, as Viktor tries to make sense of his situation and the idiot taunts him with nonsensical phrases and actions. The second movement is more introspective, as Viktor begins to confront his own fears and insecurities. The final movement is a resolution, as Viktor finally overcomes the idiot and is able to leave the room. The premiere of "Life With an Idiot" took place in Amsterdam in 1992, and it was met with mixed reviews. Some critics praised Schnittke's innovative use of musical styles and techniques, while others found the opera to be too abstract and difficult to follow. Despite its mixed reception, "Life With an Idiot" remains an important work in Schnittke's oeuvre. Its exploration of the human psyche and the struggle between conscious and subconscious thought is a theme that resonates with audiences to this day.

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