<P> Leonard Bernstein described the symphony as the first musical expedition into psychedelia because of its hallucinatory and dream - like nature , and because history suggests Berlioz composed at least a portion of it under the influence of opium . According to Bernstein , `` Berlioz tells it like it is . You take a trip , you wind up screaming at your own funeral . '' </P>
<P> Leonard Bernstein described the symphony as the first musical expedition into psychedelia because of its hallucinatory and dream - like nature , and because history suggests Berlioz composed at least a portion of it under the influence of opium . According to Bernstein , `` Berlioz tells it like it is . You take a trip , you wind up screaming at your own funeral . '' </P>
who inspired berlioz to compose his symphonie fantastique
who inspired berlioz to compose his symphonie fantastique
opium
opium