Jan Hanus (born 1915 in Prague) without a doubt ranks among the most prominent figures of Czech musical culture in the post-war period. In his output (over 120 opuses), the composer often draws on various literary works; the same is true also for a fantasy variation for solo violin A Zest for Life op.127, completed on 21 August 2000.
The last page of the autograph bears the following inscription: This is not programme music! It is only an insufficient attempt to express my gratitude to Pierre Tielhard's thoughts, which engaged me during the summer of 2000. The composition is intended for advanced players.