Barbara Blomberg — Volume 09

The narrative follows Barbara, a former singer who has lost her voice and the imperial favor that once shaped her prospects; she now lives in a modest Brussels household with her husband and two sons while longing for the aristocratic quarter and for her hidden son John, whom she may see only briefly under strict orders. Memories of past affection and artistic life recur in private music-making and solitary reveries. Friends and allies include the musician Gombert, the violinist Massi, and a young ward placed in a minister's service, yet social constraints, secrecy surrounding John, and enforced limits on contact define her restricted domestic existence.