"The Death of Boris" by Mussorgsky is an impactful musical piece that resonates with themes of tragedy and loss. It captures the dramatic moments surrounding the death of the character Boris Godunov, expressing deep emotional undertones through its composition. Mussorgsky uses rich orchestration and vocal elements to convey the sorrow and inevitability of death, making it a poignant piece in the classical repertoire.

In "In the Garden of Beasts," Erik Larson explores the chilling experiences of an American family living in Berlin during the rise of the Nazi regime. The narrative vividly illustrates the tension and fear that permeated life in Germany at that time, intertwined with personal stories of love and terror. The book provides a gripping account of the moral complexities faced by individuals as they navigated the oppressive political landscape while attempting to maintain their humanity.