A critic''s efforts to write a biography are hampered by all the women in his subject''s house.

Felix, a famous cellist, has died. At his funeral, the last 4 days of his life are recounted. Cornelius, a conceited, well-known music critic, visits at the summer home of Felix, bringing with him his own musical composition entitled "A Fish's Dream. Abstraction No. 14," which he hopes the "genius" will perform. Also staying at the estate are the numerous women in Felix's life: his wife Adelaïde, his mistress Humlan, his accompanist Beatrice, his housemaid Isolde, his pretty young relative Cecilia, his pupil Traviata, and his patroness Madame Tussaud. Cornelius, denied permission to enter the master's presence, wanders about the huge house attempting to learn something about Felix. Humlan lures him to bed, Traviata attacks him, and he is photographed by Jillker, Felix's concert master, in a compromising position with Beatrice. Fleeing to the attic, he finds some letters in which Felix urges Adelaïde to murder him if ever he betrays his art. After causing mass confusion by accidentally setting off a fireworks display, Cornelius attempts to see Felix by dressing as a woman. Failing in this he angrily announces that unless his musical composition is performed by Felix he will not immortalize him in a biography. Although Felix makes no reply, Cornelius' work is announced for the "genius"'s radio concert. But Felix dies before a note can be played . After the funeral Cornelius begins to read Felix's biography to the others. They are interrupted by a young cellist who plays for them. Felix is forgotten as everyone gathers around the new "genius."