The author was a professional opera singer, a tenor. His love of opera, his musical experience, and his literary studies give him a solid base for analysis and commentary.
The book is for the person who wishes to explore the vast and fascinating world beneath the surface of opera. It stresses the literary aspects of La Bohème, emphasizes the dramatic excellence of Carmen, considers musical aspects of La Traviata, and examines The Rake's Progress as visual art. The form and content will not alienate the beginner or disappoint the reader familiar with opera.