Le fantôme de l'opéra (The Phantom of the Opera)

Sarah Fine has described Of Metal and Wishes as a reimagining of the classic story.

• Slaughterhouse/factory → Opera house: Fine transforms the original theatrical setting into an industrial slaughterhouse.
• Ghost/Phantom → Ghost: A mysterious figure inhabits the hidden spaces beneath the factory and secretly watches over Wen.
• Christine → Wen: The young heroine becomes connected to the mysterious hidden figure.
• Phantom → Ghost figure: The isolated, disfigured/hidden male figure and his fixation on the heroine are adapted from the Phantom concept.
• Romantic triangle: Wen's relationship with Melik adds a second romantic relationship that changes the original dynamic.

• A physically disfigured outcast is rejected by society because of his appearance.
• The central "monster" is portrayed as intelligent, articulate, and capable of deep emotion rather than inherently evil.
• Society's rejection contributes to the character's descent into violence.
• Explores the tension between outward monstrosity and inner humanity.
• Invites readers to sympathize with the antagonist despite his crimes.
• Questions whether monstrosity is innate or created by social exclusion.
• Blends Gothic horror with psychological tragedy.
• The "monster" longs for love, acceptance, and companionship but believes these are unattainable.
• Challenges readers to reconsider who the true monster is—the outcast or the society that rejects him.

• Leroux was fascinated by the building and its architecture.
• He incorporated real features (the underground lake, hidden passages) into the novel.
• He claimed to have investigated the Opera House as a journalist.