This memoir by Franz Liszt provides a unique insight into the life and work of his friend and fellow composer, Frédéric Chopin. Liszt discusses Chopin's psychological character and his compositional style, and offers his own interpretations of some of Chopin's polonaises, especially the grand polonaise in F sharp minor. He also examines the influence of Chopin's circle of friends and acquaintances on his music, and discusses his fame and early life. Finally, Liszt gives a detailed account of Chopin's struggles with ill health and his untimely death.