The episodes of
this Ballade are so attenuated of any grosser elements that none
but psychical meanings should be read into them.
The disputed passage is on the fifth page of the Kullak edition,
after the trills. A measure is missing in Kullak, who, like
Klindworth, gives it in a footnote. To my mind this repetition
adds emphasis, although it is a formal blur. And what an
irresistible moment it is, this delightful territory, before the
darker mood of the C sharp minor part is reached! Niecks becomes
enthusiastic over the insinuation and persuasion of this
composition: "the composer showing himself in a fundamentally
caressing mood." The ease with which the entire work is floated
proves that Chopin in mental health was not daunted by larger
forms. There is moonlight in this music, and some sunlight, too.
The prevailing moods are coquetry and sweet contentment.
Contrapuntal skill is shown in the working out section. Chopin
always wears his learning lightly; it does not oppress us. The
inverted dominant pedal in the C sharp minor episode reveals,
with the massive coda, a great master.
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