This absorbing, wide-ranging and incisive biography unfolds the life and work of the much-loved twentieth-century composer Sergei Prokofiev, revealing a surprisingly optimistic spirit amid a tumultuous backdrop of geopolitical chaos and ever-shifting musical landscapes. The narrative weaves through Prokofiev’s intricate existence, depicting a life coloured by pathos and intersecting with a myriad of characters. Christina Guillaumier breathes life into the people and landscapes that shaped Prokofiev’s journey, capturing the unwavering passion of a musical genius whose love for his craft transcended all barriers. This new account is a vivid portrait of resilience, offering a fresh perspective on Prokofiev’s indomitable spirit.