The Vexations

A Novel by Caitlin Horrocks, 2019

“But we’re all trying to make something small… The only way big ideas get inside is by making them small.”
—Erik Satie

A title borrowed from a work by the enigmatic composer Erik Satie, The Vexations offers a glimpse of his life told through the stories of those closest to him. From Satie’s early childhood to his emergence among the Parisian avant-garde in Belle Époque France, this novel expands beyond a biography to explore and revel in the intimate human connections that make up a life.

PCM faculty and friends explore works by Erik Satie, his contemporaries, and those most influenced by his compositional philosophies.

Immediately following the premiere, join us for a meet and greet with Dr. Nic Gerpe and Dr. Kathryn Eames, PCM Board Member (and narrator) Jane Kaczmarek, and Director of Marketing and Communications Matthew Bookman. We will discuss their unique roles in developing the program, explore some of Satie’s eccentricities, and have an open Q&A for guests to ask their most burning questions.

The Vexations may be purchased through Vroman’s Bookstore.