Complex Motivic Analysis

Chapter 7 establishes the rules and guidelines for complex motivic analysis (CMA). CMA is the more advanced mode of motivic analysis, which centers around the activity of a larger, network-type motive composed of elements from many domains (similar to Schoenberg’s Grundgestalt). The chapter first provides an introduction to the expanded format for motive, including guidance on which domains to include and the proper format for each. It then guides readers through construction of a complex motive for a short Brahms waltz. The remainder of the chapter is given over to describing the paired end products of CMA, which are (1) an Organic Map illustrating the most significant motivic connections in the manner of an enhanced BMA, and (2) a “Narrative” that tallies and charts the number of Complex elements exhibited by each surface segment of the work. The result of the latter process is a Narrative Curve that charts the work’s fluctuating level of organicism and directly reflects the piece’s CMA archetype. The chapter concludes with demonstration of a full CMA analysis of the Brahms waltz.