Art

The reason why all of these international guests come together in the same house is to hear a talented opera singer. It is also the cause that will unite all of them, despite their cultural and language barriers.

The role that music and opera plays in this novel cannot be understated. It is the central theme that runs throughout the siege, allowing all of the characters—regardless of their background, education or socioeconomic status—to share something. It unifies them.

When Roxane begins to sing during the siege, the generals and hostages alike can appreciate the beauty of her music. When Kato offers his talents as a piano accompanist, the siege is transformed from an uncertain, aggressive situation into a type of cultured environment where they are all able to appreciate and listen to Roxane sing, the initial reason many of them traveled to this home...