“‘Orfeo’: Artist or terrorist — is there a difference?,” by Laura Miller, Salon, January 19, 2014. In Richard Powers’ sweeping new novel of ideas, an avant-garde composer flees charges of bioterrorism.
Powers, with “Orfeo,” also seems to be entertaining a revived respect for storytelling; there’s no point in this novel where you feel you have to push yourself through. It’s one long express-train ride to the gorgeous. … And the scenery is as sublime as ever. … These are ecstasies that can consume a whole life, but to those who hold a book like “Orfeo” in their hands, it certainly seems worth it.