Description
Vers la flamme, Op. 72 (“Toward the flame”) is one of Alexander Scriabin’s last few pieces for piano, written in 1914.
The melody of the piece is very simple, consisting mainly of descending half steps. However, the unusual harmonies and difficult tremolos create an intense, fiery luminance. This piece was intended to be Scriabin’s eleventh sonata; however he had to publish it early because of financial concerns. Hence, the piece is only labeled a poem, rather than a sonata.
According to pianist Vladimir Horowitz, the piece was inspired by Scriabin’s eccentric conviction that a constant accumulation of heat would ultimately cause the destruction of the world. The piece’s title reflects the Earth’s fiery destruction, as well as the constant emotional build up and crescendo throughout the piece leading, ultimately, “toward the flame”.
The piece is approximately six minutes long.
