James Joyce
Chamber Music
"Chamber Music" by James Joyce is a collection of thirty-six love poems published in 1907. Originally comprising thirty-four poems, with two added before publication, this early work reveals Joyce as a lonely young man dreaming of love. The poems feature accessible lyricism that has inspired numerous musical adaptations by composers ranging from Samuel Barber to contemporary alternative artists. Though the collection sold poorly initially, it received critical praise for its delicate temperament and emotional craft, establishing Joyce's poetic voice before his groundbreaking prose works.