| |
| Messiaen uses rhythmic
motifs of 17 notes and 29 notes which play
together. The different prime numbers ensure
that the motifs are constantly creating new
combinations of sound as the music evolves.
It gives the piece a sense of timelessness
because it takes a very long time before the
two motifs will repeat a pattern already heard.
Messiaen is using the same principle as the
prime number cicada who avoids its periodic
predator by choosing a prime number life cycle.
|
|
 |
|
