Umelec nesmí nikdy ztratit odvahu / An artist can never lose courage

The publication reveals details of Bohuslav Martinu’s relations with his pupil and composer Jan Novák in the years 1947–1959 against the background of preserved correspondence. The book brings an edition of a set of letters from Martinu to Novák and also Jan Novák’s correspondence about Martinu and vice versa. The interpretation of the newly acquired sources reveals a rich network of related facts, events and contacts that reconstruct the framework of contemporary musical culture. They also define the role of Jan Novák and his wife Eliška in promoting Martinu’s work in the 1950’s in our country at a time when he was facing politically engaged criticism. The monograph also strives to point out parallels in the life and work of both composers, whether it is emigration, Europeanism, humanism or the relationship to folk music and theater. The book, which is published on the 100th anniversary of Jan Novák’s birth, seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the work of this important composer, who was sentenced to compulsory collective amnesia due to emigration.