[Footnote 154: Free, in that they are not numbered and are not separated by rigid cadences; in that episodical passages--often of a rhapsodic nature--are interpolated.]
[Footnote 155: The tempo is often taken by conductors too slowly, thus losing much of its buoyancy.]
The first two presentations of the theme are in each case followed by a passage of martial character which bursts triumphantly into C major. There is an orchestral touch of great beauty and originality in the first and second variations (beginning in measures 49 and 98 respectively), where a solo clarinet--later a flute, oboe and bassoon--prolongs a single tone which seems to float above the melody like a guiding star.[156] A passage of special significance is that in measures 123-146, where Beethoven indulges in a touching soliloquy upon his main theme. It is mysteriously introduced by the repetition, eight times, _pp_, of the dominant chord (the simplest medium of suspense) which seems to say "Hush, I have something most intimate reveal." The Coda (Più Moto) begins with a mood of wistful reverie, but the clouds are soon dispelled and the movement ends in radiant sunshine.
[Footnote 156: While listening to this passage one is instinctively reminded of Keats's "Bright and steadfast star, hung aloft the night."]