Summary:

"The World Got Away: A Memoir" by Mikel Rouse, with Kyle Gann, offers a poignant and introspective exploration of life and music. Rouse shares personal anecdotes, reflections, and insights into his journey as a composer and artist. From his early influences to his groundbreaking works, this memoir delves into the creative process and the challenges of pursuing a career in music. With honesty and depth, Rouse's narrative provides a compelling glimpse into the intersection of art and life.

One of the most innovative composers of his generation, Mikel Rouse is known for a trilogy of operas that includes Dennis Cleveland and a gift for superimposing pop vernaculars onto avant-garde music. This memoir channels Rouse’s high energy personality into an exuberant account of the precarity and pleasures of artistic creation. Raconteur and starving artist, witty observer and acclaimed musician, Rouse emerged from the legendary art world of 1980s New York to build a forty-year career defined by stage and musical successes, inexhaustible creativity, and a support network of famous faces, loyal allies, and high art hustlers. Rouse guides readers through a working artists’ hardscrabble life while illuminating the unromantic truth that a project’s reception may depend on a talented cast and crew but can depend on reliable air conditioning.

Candid and hilarious, The World Got Away is a one-of-a-kind account of a creative life fueled by talent, work, and luck.

Editorial Reviews:

"A mesmerizing memoir that offers a unique perspective on music and creativity. Rouse's storytelling is both intimate and profound." - Musician's Quarterly

"Kyle Gann's collaboration with Mikel Rouse results in a captivating memoir that resonates with authenticity and depth." - Artistic Insight Magazine

"A must-read for fans of Mikel Rouse's music. The World Got Away is a moving testament to his talent and vision." - Creative Review

About the Author:

Mikel Rouse is a critically acclaimed composer, performer, and multimedia artist known for his innovative approach to music and technology. Kyle Gann is a respected musicologist and author specializing in American music. Together, they collaborate to create a memoir that offers deep insights into the creative process and the human experience.