On Lexus, Hairapy, and the Scherzo from Beethoven's Ninth (with a nod to Kubrick)

Bravo, this is a truly outstanding article. However, the author fails to mention the important fact that the ninth was also a favorite of Adolf Hitler, and probably the best recording of Beethoven’s masterwork was by the Berliner Philharmoniker under the direction of Wilhelm Furtwangler during the 1942 celebrations of the Fuhrer’s birthday. Arguably, Hitler saw his political ideology reflected on Beethoven’s work (although Wagner is a more obvious example).
Oliver

Comment by Oliver Bean from Virginia — June 8, 2007 @ 11:27 am

I enjoyed your comment very much.  I would like to know, however, how you would respond to Adorno’s dictum that art perceived [merely] aesthetically is art misperceived; since you seem to gesture toward some sort of chastened formalism.  I agree that the crass commercialism of the Ninth dilutes its power and effectiveness; which is most likely the point, anyway.The trick is see how the artwork passes through the crucible of reification to re-emerge, both auratically disenchanted and latent with critical potential.  But I liked your piece very much and would be interested to hear your response.

Comment by opticks — June 9, 2007 @ 8:34 pm

I’m working on a story for public radio about Beethoven’s enduring appeal. You raised a few points in your article that I’d like to touch on in my piece. And so I’m wondering if we can chat. I’m also wondering where you live because I might like to interview you for my story. If you’re game. Can you please let me know? I will be out of town until Monday morning, August 13th. But please drop me a line if you can. Or give a ring: 617.821.0662. Thanks for the great piece!!

Comment by Andrea Shea from Boston — August 9, 2007 @ 2:09 pm