A Gem

I knew Jeannette Haien when I worked at The Mannes College of Music in the 1970’s and 80’s. She was one of the strongest forces on the piano faculty at that time. She had few students, but she chose wisely. Her presence on a jury was formidable; indeed she was not always an amiable colleague. She demanded respect, and she could be very abrasive if she thought she wasn’t getting her full share. Over the years she helped to form some big talents, but her role was always a bit controversial. I respected her judgment and her taste even as I feared her scorn and dreaded having to cross her. There was only one Jeannette; yes there was probably only room for one Jeanette Haien on the planet.

Jeanette Haien

I do remember vaguely that she had published something close to when I left the school, but at that time I paid little attention. So last week I got to wondering what had happened to Jeanette and I was sad to discover that she had died in 2008; but I was happy to learn that she had published two novels, and I quickly acquired copies of both. The All of It is the first, published initially in 1986 when Jeanette was in her sixties.  I have no idea how someone could publish a first novel of this quality at that age.  She was an accomplished musician and teacher.  Where from this skill with words, literary form, dialect, structure, and character?  These are techniques that writers develop over decades, but Jeanette published this gem late in life seemingly from out of nowhere.

It’s a compact novel, traditional in structure; it takes place in Ireland.  Yes, there’s a priest and also some mysterious racy conduct. But this is a book with great regard for both literary and cultural tradition.  No modern touches here, no tricks, no self-referential mirrors.  But there is great beauty of language, and much subtlety in morality and human values.  The language recalls Banville minus his modern touches. The brevity makes the narration riveting. Once you get a bit into the 140 pages you’ll read it straight through.  I was both captivated and moved. This is one of those side lines that spin off from the main railroad line of literary evolution.  It probably won’t lead anywhere important in the future; rather it looks back to other times, other places, other techniques.  I’m glad to have it with us.

Jeanette, I understand from this book that I knew only small parts of you.  My loss. But I’m glad to have read your first novel, and I look forward to reading the second (and last) novel as well.  Your teaching continues.