Completed on August 10, 2020, the fifth introspection is the last in the series that began last April. I started work on this movement on July 16 during a short personal retreat in Rockport, Massachusetts. Removed from my urban Cambridge home and distanced slightly from the tensions related to the pandemic and political strife, I embarked on this trip with the goal of bringing my mind into a more peaceful state.

Marked “Poignantly, rubato throughout”, this movement picks up from the previous one (which ends with a low pedal note C), beginning in C major with a sparse and simple melody that recurs as the main theme throughout. Acting as the denouement for the entire work, this movement serves as a self-reminder that there is always resolution after conflict, that positive change is inevitable after times of discord, and that there will always be things bigger and more important than my own personal angst. Perspective is difficult during times of strife, but I believe it is essential, particularly during the bad times, to remind ourselves of the beauty and wonder of the world.

I offer my heartfelt thanks to Heinrich Christensen for his constant friendship and musical support throughout this project (and so many others). His willingness to take risks with new and unknown works is a gift of immeasurable value. Tak skal du have.

--G.G.R., November 10, 2020