6 Things to Know About Harry Partch’s *Inanna*
- The work retells the Sumerian myth of Inanna’s descent into the underworld.
- Partch based the piece on ancient Mesopotamian texts, not modern interpretations.
- The music uses Partch’s custom-built instruments, like the chromelodeon and cloud-chamber bowls.
- The story follows Inanna’s journey through seven gates, where she sheds a piece of clothing or jewelry at each one.
- The goddess is eventually killed and hung on a hook, then resurrected through divine intervention.
- Partch’s version emphasizes the raw, ritualistic power of the myth over narrative clarity.