[PDF] The Command to Look: A Master Photographerrsquo;s Method for Controlling the Human Gaze by William Mortensen; George Dunham in Arts-Photography

Review

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. An Essential For The Verdi LoverBy John G. Gleeson Sr.I have lived with this book for a little over a year; it rests on a table next to my chair so that I can access it frequently; as I do. I have referred to it in several reviews of Verdi on DVD and thought that in justice to this fine work; I should comment briefly on why it is so important to my enjoyment of Verdis operas.First; there is an adequate biography. I have and consult the definitive biography by Ms. Phillips-Matz; but for the quick reference; Mr. Berger works very well: there is enough detail to answer most any question I have had.Second; all of the operas are outlined as to plot and discussed. No; this is not Buddens three volume tome of the 1970s (if memory serves); but again; unless one can sight read an orchestral score; Budden takes some effort to get through. Berger is much more easy on the attention span; but still with plenty of detail. When I came to opera; there were only four or five of Verdis operas that had been recorded; and those were cut substantially ( all those vulgar cabalettas!) It is gratifying to see all theearly Verdi" treated with affectionate respect.Third; there is a short; succinct guide to audio recordings with some absolutely delicious editorial remarks ( he mentions Canadian tenor Richard Margison sounding like he was chanelling Ethel Merman and notes that a well known sopranos high notes could kill goldfish in a bowl!) Sad to say; the book was written before the surge of DVDs.Fourth is the quality of writing: Berger has a crisp; grammatic style that maintains interest. Part of this; I am sure; reflects his obvious love of Verdis output.So in sum; gentle reader; I recomend this book without reservation. Its a winner!!19 of 19 people found the following review helpful. Bravo Berger and Viva Verdi!By C. M MillsThis short guide to Verdis life and works is in indispensable gem for anyone wanting to learn more about Italys greatest operatic composer! Berger gives a succincly informative sketch of the complex composers life. He adds chapters on Verdi books; CDS; Videos; staging of Verdi operas and a helpful glossary of operatic terms. The most helpful and longest part of the book deals with a brief synopsis of each opera in the Verdian canon from the obscure "Oberto" to the Masters final comic masterpiece "Falstaff." Berger lists the characters of each opera; makes witty comments on the big arias and scenes in each opera and also provides historical information on the production of each opera. I had earlier read Bergers excellent "Wagner Without Fear" and was so impressed with his writing that I eagerly turned to Bergers guide to Verdi. I understand he is now working on a similar guide to the life and operas of Puccini which will be received by this reviewer with gratitude.If you are a novice to operatic enjoyment or a seasoned Verdianthis work will be a delight. I highly recommend it for your consideration!7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. Bravo Berger for a Viva Verdi literary treat!By C. M MillsViva Verdi! William Berger provides a useful guide to all of the Verdi operas from the obscure "Oberto" to the classic comedic masterpiece "Falstaff" which closed the operatic masters oeuvre. Bergers book is similar to the treatment he earlier applied to Richard Wagner in his " Wagner Without Fear." This means:a. Succinct but on target plot summaries of all Verdis operas including the Verdi Requium.b. Brief chapters on the staging of Verdis operas; Verdis works on CD and outstanding books on the Busseto genius for anyone wanting to know more about the King of Italian lyrical opera. Bergers work is worthwhile reading for the operatic novice or the veteran opera fan who wants to brush up on the labyrinthal plot of "Il Trovotore" or explore how Verdis music has been used as soundtrack for motion pictures. Bergers book on Verdi is a treat for everyone enjoying opera who also relishes good writing done with wit; charm and panache! I eagerly await a similar guide on Puccini which I have learned is in the works from the pen of Berger! Highly recommended!