Despite his work often featuring disturbing subjects and lyrics that are difficult to sing, composer-lyricist Stephen Sondheim was notably reserved in acknowledging his influences. A new review by Daniel Okrent details how Oscar Hammerstein II—Sondheim’s surrogate father figure during his childhood—played a pivotal role in shaping the artist’s early musical development.
The review highlights Sondheim’s upbringing under his mother, Etta Janet Fox, a dress designer known for emotional instability, which fostered deep-seated resentment that profoundly influenced his artistic output. This includes later satirical works such as Company and dark musicals like Sweeney Todd and Assassins.
Okrent explores how Sondheim’s complex relationship with his mother shaped his preference for unflinching themes and mathematical precision in songwriting. The review also notes Sondheim’s lifelong partnership with Jeff Romley, which coexisted alongside his artistic intensity.
The book contrasts Sondheim’s approach to art with that of his mentors: while Hammerstein championed warm, optimistic visions, Sondheim transformed personal trauma into works that confront the harsh realities of human nature.