Brahms' song writing has received harsh treatment throughout the past centuries. In a book which will transform the way we understand (and listen to) Brahms' works for voice, Sams reveals the depth of the composer's 'verbal expressiveness'- an accomplishment that effectively established a new language; musical form became a medium for poetic dialogue. With the addition of an incisive introduction to the composer as song-writer and to his specific use of motifs, this is an unrivalled and complete analysis, an invaluable companion for students, performers and listeners.