Long (international studies, Auburn U.) makes a case that Spanish-Mexican nun Juana Inés de la Cruz (1651-95) not only displayed the talents of a poet, playwright, scientist, and mathematician, but also explored musical instruments and theory. She highlights the musical aspects of her literary achievements, describing a dense metaphorical interplay of musical and literary images, and placing her works within the musicological ambiance of her time. Her topics include 17th-century European music, musical themes in European poetry, musical notes in Sor Juana's works, scales and tempering, sacred vocal music in Spain and Mexico, song and dance forms in her works, and harmony. Quotations are in Spanish. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)