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Daniel Okrent's Biography Reveals Sondheim's Complex Life

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Daniel Okrent's biography Stephen Sondheim: Art Isn’t Easy offers a portrait of Stephen Sondheim based on three years of research, highlighting his emotional complexity and artistic brilliance.
The book examines Sondheim's relationships, including his late-life marriage and friendships with influential figures.
It discusses his struggles with alcoholism and his artistic process, referencing works such as Company and Sweeney Todd.

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Story summary

Daniel Okrent's biography Stephen Sondheim: Art Isn’t Easy offers a portrait of Stephen Sondheim based on three years of research, highlighting his emotional complexity and artistic brilliance.
The book examines Sondheim's relationships, including his late-life marriage and friendships with influential figures.
It discusses his struggles with alcoholism and his artistic process, referencing works such as Company and Sweeney Todd.