Much like a third-grader memorizes all the Pokémon characters and their special powers, the protagonist of Steppenwolf, the Steppenwolf himself, is a self-made expert on all the great musicians and authors in German history.
He hates jazz because it's not as good as classical music, until he learns some lessons about the difference between talking about music and making music… and how to dance, of course. It's kind of hard to boogie to Beethoven.
Questions About Art and Culture
- What is Harry's attitude toward music and art? How about Pablo?
- What are the big differences between classical music and jazz for Harry?
- Is it necessary to know about music to be a good musician, and vice versa, according to the novel?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Harry uses his knowledge of art and culture as a crutch, defending him from the rest of society.
Learning how to dance was the last step in Harry's cultural education.