Melomaniacs

"Melomaniacs" by James Huneker is a story that looks at the lives of musicians and their devotion to music, showcasing the struggles and ideas that come with their art. The book starts with Baruch Mendoza, a Jewish musician, facing the Grand Inquisitor, who wants him to give up his beliefs. Mendoza is in a scary hall with monks, going through a tough time as he hears a drum and a choir singing in a painful way. This creates a feeling of fear, beauty, and sadness, suggesting the story will look at faith, who people are, and the risks of expressing yourself through art. The beginning sets a dark tone and hints at the issues and culture that will be explored in the story.