PoulencFrancis Poulenc (18991963) is widely acknowledged as one of the twentieth century's most significant masters of vocal musicsolo, choral, and operaticquite apart from his achievements in instrumental spheres. But what it cost him, and the determined bravery it took for his unusual talent to thrive, has always been underestimated. In this seminal biography, Poulenc, which will serve as the definitive guide to the songs, acclaimed collaborative pianist