The definitive English-language study of the works of Olivier Messiaen, one of the most important of living composers, is here revised and updated. Robert Sherlaw Johnson surveys Messiaen's music and musical language, exploring the development of Messiaen's technique, his individual approach to harmony and rhythm, the theological and symbolic aspects of his music, and his use of birdsong. A brief biographical sketch is included, as well as a chronological list of works.