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Working on a Song

The Lyrics of HADESTOWN

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Working on a Song

By: Anaïs Mitchell
Narrated by: Anaïs Mitchell, Steve Earle
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About this listen

"Working On A Song is one of the best books about lyric writing for the theater I've read."Lin-Manuel Miranda

Anaïs
Mitchell named to TIME's List of the 100 Most Influential People in the World of 2020

An illuminating book of lyrics and stories from Hadestown—the winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical—from its author, songwriter Anaïs Mitchell with a foreword by Steve Earle


On Broadway, this fresh take on the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice has become a modern classic. Heralded as “The best new musical of the season,” by The Wall Street Journal, and “Sumptuous. Gorgeous. As good as it gets,” by The New York Times, the show was a breakout hit, with its poignant social commentary, and spellbinding music and lyrics.

In this book, Anaïs Mitchell takes readers inside her more than decade’s-long process of building the musical from the ground up—detailing her inspiration, breaking down the lyrics, and opening up the process of creation that gave birth to Hadestown. Fans and newcomers alike will love this deeply thoughtful, revealing look at how the songs from “the underground” evolved, and became the songs we sing again and again.
Drama & Plays Entertainment & Performing Arts United States World Literature Theatre Entertainment

Critic reviews

Praise for Working on a Song:
"Working On A Song is one of the best books about lyric writing for the theater I've read. Up there w the Sondheim Tomes and Ira Gershwin's book. Specifically, re-writing, and revising, and holding on to your voice while telling your story."Lin-Manuel Miranda
All stars
Most relevant
This is the book I wanted it to be. I've never even seen the show and I loved every word.

Fascinating and inspiring

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