Kiki van Beethoven by Éric-Emmanuel Schmitt. Short summary

5 seconds

The author recounts his introduction to Beethoven when he was 14 years old. The creator also describes the impact of the composer’s work on the life of an elderly woman, Kiki, and her 3 friends.

1 minute

The writer shares with readers a description of his own encounter with Beethoven when he was 14 years old. Schmitt adds that he and the aforementioned composer maintained a friendly relationship. According to him, Ludwig helped him to solve many problems, in particular to eliminate pain and to forgive his wife when she declared that she loved another man.

The author describes various works by Beethoven and compares the latter’s creative activities with other «colleagues,» viz: Mozart and Bach. According to the French writer, Bach’s works represent music written by God, while Mozart’s works are what God prefers to hear. Schmitt believes that Beethoven’s talent convinces the creator of the world to remove himself and give his place to man.

He does not understand why Beethoven died while a multitude of foolish people continue to live.

The creator recounts the impact of Beethoven’s work on an old lady named Kiki and her 3 friends.