You are to write a song based on the following poem by Emily Dickinson.
There are two mays
and then a must
and after that a shall.
How infinite the compromise
that indicates I will!
Your song should demonstrate your ability to use mode mixture, chromaticism,
and modulation to suit an interpretation of this wonderful verse. The song does not need
to be long, but you may need to repeat text should your musical ideas require a
larger canvas.
Basics
Before beginning, consider the nuances of the verse by asking yourself the following questions.
How does this poem divide formally and gramatically?
Do the words project a clear rhythmic pattern? If so, do they convey a meter (in the musical sense)?
How the the presentation of text (i.e., 5 lines instead of 4 or 2) conflict with the rhythm of the words?
What is the general mood of the poem--do you expect to use a lot of diminished 7th chords?
Is there a fundamental opposition conveyed by "may"--"must"--"will"? How might you express in music the subtle differences in meaning between these concepts?
Details
Try to include each of the following in your setting: