The Story of a Genius

"The Story of a Genius" by Ossip Schubin follows Gesa von Zuylen, a gifted violinist from a modest background, through his journey of navigating artistic desires, societal demands, and complicated relationships. The story zooms in on his connection with the famous musician Alphonse de Sterny and the emotional bonds with his foster father, Gaston Delileo, and his fiancée, Annette. The beginning of the story shows the excitement about de Sterny’s return to Brussels and the first practice of his Oratorio "Satan." The local musicians have different feelings, which causes discussions about de Sterny's history as a musical star and his strange disappearance from the spotlight. At the same time, we learn about Gesa's past, his difficult childhood in the Rue Ravestein, and his growing musical skills that Delileo helped develop. The start of this story shows the artistic environment of the time and Gesa's dreams, paving the way for possible problems and relationships that will grow as the story continues. The text hints at deeper ideas of longing, ambition, and the troubles of being a genius, as Gesa struggles with who he is while facing personal and artistic problems.