by Willa Cather (Author) ""A Wagner Matinee"" is a short story written by Willa Cather, first published in 1904. The story follows the protagonist, Clark, as he welcomes his Aunt Georgiana to Boston after a long absence. Aunt Georgiana had lived in Nebraska with Clark's uncle for many years, but had moved to Boston to live with her son. During her visit, Clark takes her to a matinee performance of Wagner's music, which she had loved as a young woman. As the music plays, Aunt Georgiana becomes overwhelmed with emotion and memories of her past life in Nebraska. The story explores themes of nostalgia, the passage of time, and the importance of cultural experiences.