Page:Rolland - Beethoven, tr. Hull, 1927.pdf/222

 by a recitative and introduction. This is followed by a Presto, where Beethoven appears in one of his joking moods. The tempo here alters continually, then comes a short Adagio section, a lamentation broken off by one of Beethoven's gruff shrugs, and the last movement opens with a clearly marked theme in happy mood. Strongly contrasted portions occur from time to time, but the work ends triumphantly.

The opening movement is on the same lines as that of the preceding quartet. Moods change constantly and the development is of the freest kind; there are two parts to the second subject, one a vivacious little figure, two a short singing phrase. The Allegro in A major is in terary form and takes the place of the Scherzo. Then follows that remarkable movement in the Lydian mode headed "A convalescent's sacred song of thanksgiving to the divinity." This interesting modal piece was written after the composer's illness. The variations of it alternate with the Andante in D major, thus producing striking contrasts of key colour. The final Allegro is in free Sonata form.