The author recounts his experiences in building collections of rare books and manuscripts of French literature, and reveals little-known facts about French artists, composers, and writers.

Gertrude Stein's "Composition as Explanation" delves into the intricate relationship between language and artistic expression. Published in 1926, the essay explores Stein's unique approach to writing and challenges conventional perceptions of composition. With a distinctive prose style, she reflects on the nature of creativity, emphasizing the significance of repetition and abstraction. Stein's work serves as both an exploration of her own artistic process and a broader commentary on the essence of language in shaping our understanding of art.

This is the first comprehensive historical overview of music created by women from the 9th through the 20th centuries. Each volume features 10-25 complete musical scores or complete movements from multi-movement compositions--most of which have been previously inaccessible. Expert scholars provide original essays about the composers, including biographical information, a discussion of the music in historical context, and critical analysis of each work. Entries also include bibliography, a list of works by the composer, and a discography.