The Operas of Benjamin Britten: Expression and Evasion

This controversial analysis of Britten's operatic works demonstrates how he used music to explore his most private concerns.

Claire Seymour examines ways in which Britten's operas explored and articulated the inherent ambiguity and latent sexuality of music, particularly song, and suggests that they may illustrate his search for a public "voice" which would embody, communicate, and perhaps resolve his private beliefs and anxieties. She demonstrates how the delicate balance between private an...