Olivier Messiaen's important piano cycle "Vingt regards sur l’enfant-Jésus" (Twenty Regards on the Child Jesus) was composed between March and September 1944 in Paris, a time marked by political instability and supply shortages. While the Allies were on the verge of liberating the city in August, food shortages, power outages, and the railway strike disrupted the daily lives of the population, who suffered under both the German occupation and the resistance.
Despite these difficult circumstances, Messiaen devoted himself intensively to composing his twenty meditations for piano. After the liberation, preparations began for the first private performances. However, the publication of the work was delayed, as Messiaen initially searched for a suitable publisher. "Vingt Regards" was finally published by Durand et Cie in June 1947, followed by the public premiere in December, performed by Yvonne Loriod.
Reactions to the work were mixed. While some admired Messiaen's unmistakable style and musical language, others criticized his compositional techniques and theological pronouncements. These opposing opinions sparked lively debates in the music press, with both supporters and opponents taking their positions.
Messiaen himself found the harsh attacks, particularly regarding his compositional methods and his authenticity, distressing. The public discussion surrounding his work continued for years and left a lasting mark on the music world. Nevertheless, Messiaen remained true to his artistic convictions and continued to draw strength from his faith and his connection to nature.
"Twenty Regards on the Child Jesus" is still considered a central work in Messiaen's oeuvre and reflects his profound spiritual quest.