In the Heiligenstadt Testament, Beethoven confesses his loss of hearing to his brothers Nikolaus and Kaspar and tells them of his inability to converse regularly anymore as well as his contemplation of suicide.
Beethoven's Heiligenstadt Testament is a poignant expression of his emotional turmoil as he grapples with the loss of his hearing, feeling disconnected from others and struggling to find meaning in his life, ultimately leading him to consider drastic measures.