Christian Thielemann knows Richard Wagner like no one else. Now, the great Wagner conductor dedicates a portrait to his favorite composer on the occasion of his 200th birthday. He shares his experiences with Wagner, guides the reader through the cosmos of his works, and explores that elusive magic that makes Wagner's music so unique. "I no longer know what came first in my life: the thought of Wagner or the thought of conducting." Richard Wagner has been both a challenge and an inspiration for Christian Thielemann since the beginning of his career - musically and technically, emotionally and intellectually. In his book, he describes how he came to Wagner, what he learned from the composer along the way, and which encounters have shaped him. He personally guides us through the operas, introduces us to their heroes, and takes a look into Wagner's creative kitchen, where the most intoxicating sounds in the world are born.