A Collection of Brevities

Joey was one of the most accomplished pianists in the world during classical music's last grand heyday at the end of the 20th century. He lived a luxurious life, and his performances in the great concert halls were globally televised. He was known even to people who do not follow music. But at the height of his career, before age 50, he suddenly and without explanation retired from playing. This set off a chain of press speculation as to why this consummate artist fell silent.

Joey's mother,...