LATENT DEPTHS: MEANINGS AND VALUES IN THE ETUDE IN F MINOR FROM FRYDERYK CHOPIN'S TROIS NOUVELLES ÉTUDES
LATENT DEPTHS: MEANINGS AND VALUES IN THE ETUDE IN F MINOR FROM FRYDERYK CHOPIN'S TROIS NOUVELLES ÉTUDES

Summary/Abstract: The intrinsic repetitiveness of the Etude in F minor evokes a profound exploration of existential duality, reflecting the worldview in which the composer lived. This duality emerges through frequent contrasts in the context of metonymy and estrangement--a hallmark of Chopin's epistolary expression. It is most vividly expressed through ironic, melancholic tones and pairs of opposing concepts, among which are: interiority versus exteriority, reality versus imagination or appearance, day versus night, homeland versus foreign land, body versus soul, heaven versus earth, life versus death, sacred versus profane, and defeat versus victory. An analysis of the work - from its didactic intent, its structural and expressive interdependencies within the linear, polyrhythmic texture, essential performance considerations, and its reception and interpretation in the context of Chopin's poetics--reveals a clear instance of expressive values taking precedence over its didactic function. The Etude in F minor emerges as one of the most original and intimate expressions in Chopin's compositional output. It offers a poignant, existential portrait of the composer, providing an invaluable insight into his aesthetic identity and prompting reflection on the metaphysical dimensions of music.

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