In 1897 Elgar became acquainted with A J Jaeger an employee of Novello publishing firm who offered encouragement during the less successful time of the composer’s life before the publication of the Enigma Variations. Over time Jaeger became Elgar’s closest friend. Jaeger wrote this analysis in 1900. While the language and certain references may be extravagant for today’s reader the insights Jaeger offers make this an invaluable accompaniment to Gerontius.
