The Tympanist of the Berlin Philharmonic, 1942 by Kim Stanley Robinson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sometimes life surprises you. Just when you think you know what to expect from your favorite authors--Kim Stanley Robinson, for me--sometimes they can throw something that sends you spinning. Or in this case, drumming.

This short story of his isn't SF. It's just the sheer glorious humanity of some musicians in the heart of the Third Reich trying to make their hearts soar with a little Beethoven's Ode, a defiance against the small-mindedness of men.

A great little musical piece, with emotions on proud display.

Of course, this is timely. Quite timely. As it should be. For every 50 people trying to rip the world to shreds, there's always one trying to set off an explosion of beauty. It's a good reminder that we are not all of one thing.




Personal note:
If anyone reading my reviews might be interested in reading my own SF, I'm going to be open to DM requests. I think it's about time I get some eyes on them.

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