The Vexations — Caitlin Horrocks

A kaleidoscopic debut novel about love, family, genius, and the madness of art, circling the life and times of French composer Erik Satie, set in early twentieth-century Paris.

The iconic French composer Erik Satie has captivated listeners globally since his youth and the beginning of his career, and long after his death nearly a century ago. Now, debut novelist Caitlin Horrocks brings us a new perspective on his life, vividly reimagined through the his own eyes and the eyes of those closest to him. Atmospheric and provocative, The Vexations is a composite portrait of a deeply fragile man obsessed with fame and unable to reconcile his need for affection with his distaste for overt displays of affection.

Satie's childhood, spent separated from his family, left him emotionally stunted and aching for approval and appreciation, particularly that of his older sister. Louise herself suffered from their separation so deeply that forgiveness and true connection became impossible, even after tragedy struck her in adulthood and she, too, was desperate for support. Caitlin Horrocks is a powerful and dynamic new voice in fiction, and The Vexations is a remarkable feat of storytelling that offers a window into one of history's most enigmatic artists.