How can something so simple be so immensely beautiful?

The last scene in Schumann's Op.15 Kinderszenen (Scenes from childhood) is an incredibly poignant piece entitled Der Dichter spricht (The Poet Speaks). Indeed, the poised and calm melody seems to closely resemble speech at times, with sudden changes in rhythm at cadences, poetic pauses and even a solo recitativo where the accompanying voices give way to the melody. The piece keeps an extraordinary simplicity in its 4-part homorhythmic texture and remarkably unadorned melody that proceeds largely by sequences. This simplicity carries a profound weight despite its appearance, perhaps referring to the great wisdom and insight in the words of the poet viewed through the lens of a child. Support me on Patreon!   / skylarlim   Recording(Horowitz):    • Schumann - Kinderszenen Op.15, "Scenes fro...