Ayorthians’ beliefs and the events of Ivi’s reign demonstrate the power of music in the story. Song has tremendous importance in Ayorthian culture: “We believe singing has power—to call forth a tree, to heal the sick, even to move the stars” (27). The Sing held after the king is injured illustrates another of music’s powers—the ability to unite people and offer hope in a time of crisis: “Participants in a Sing, especially a Healing Sing, are wrapped in an embrace of fellow feeling, neighborliness, kinship, love” (103). However, this power can be abused, as shown when Ivi commandeers the Healing Sing for her husband to declare that she will “expect obedience, loyalty, and respect from [her] subjects” (108). Ivi knows that she needs her subjects to think she has a good voice for them to view her reign favorably, making Aza’s illusing “essential to the queen’s misrule” (153). Music also gives the Ayorthian people the strength to rebel against tyranny. The choirmaster leads the revolt against the queen after she attempts to ban singing. Music’s importance extends into every facet of life in Ayorthian culture and even holds political power.

Over the course of the novel, Aza harnesses the power of music for herself. In Chapter 8, her beautiful voice and skill at composing songs allow her to bond with the prince, presenting an example of music’s ability to foster connection. Levine sets the protagonist apart from the other characters not only in terms of the quality of her voice but also in her unique ability to illuse. While Ivi tries to use this power for her own gain, Aza’s musical gifts establish her innate power, which she can only harness when she begins acting on her principles rather than capitulating to Ivi’s demands. 

This theme reaches its culmination when Aza shatters the mirror and defeats Skulni with her voice: “As I sang, I felt strong enough to fly” (283). Previously, she was forced to use the power of music in a way that betrayed her sense of self and values, but she reclaims this power and puts it to positive use. Levine’s novel argues that people place too much importance on physical appearances, while music offers a more meaningful form of beauty, allowing people to express their individuality and emotions. Aza’s voice symbolizes her inner strength and identity, so it’s fitting that her musical abilities help people understand her true character after she’s falsely accused of manipulating Ivi and Ijori: “[P]assersby stopped to listen too, and to join in, and to enter and sing more. Castle opinion mounted in my favor” (311). The novel’s happy ending reinforces Aza’s command over her musical prowess when she uses her illusing to defend her kingdom from ogres in the Epilogue, leading to greater safety and prosperity for her people. Aza’s story celebrates music’s power to bring people together and help individuals express themselves.