No one seems to know who first said "writing about music is like dancing about architecture," but I would like to use that quote to ignite this month's discussion.

Does Ann Patchett overcome this obstacle? Can one write effectively about music?

Roxane and her voice take center stage in the opening of the story. As I read the passages describing her performances, I suddenly felt I should pursue an appreciation for opera....that I am really missing out on some higher artistic plane.

Do any of you listen to opera music? Is it true that this particular genre of music is so powerful it can conquer language and cultural divides? Patchett seems to bestow this power on Roxane's voice. Do you believe that is possible? Is it the music that elevates and unites the captives and captors...or is it the desperation and confinement??