Book of Dreams
A 3 movement sonata (+ encore) based around three different kinds of dreams: a Fantasy, Lucid Dream, and Nightmare. Each movement is accompanied by a poem, written by JCHY. All are interconnected into one long dream, as the dreamer embarks on a wild journey of many thematic transformations.
The Fantasy is all about seemingly unrelated ideas being bound together, reflecting the randomness of dreams. Lucid Dream is a novel perspective on reliving a past life through a dream. This then leads to the Nightmare, of which the Waltzing Scherzo is personified. The Scherzo introduces its themes and character before showing us its true form through invading the victim’s dream. Finally, an encore which details the Scherzo’s Shenanigans concludes the Book of Dreams
Initially “Book of Dreams” was conceptualised as a three movement Piano Sonata, exploring three different kinds of dreams: Fantasies, Lucid Dreams and Nightmares. But as things progressed throughout the compositional development during the pandemic of 2020, JCHY realised that the work can become so much more. It is currently being reworked into a Piano Concerto, with additional movements being planned.
Book of Dreams (as a Piano Sonata)
I. Fantasy
I loosen my joints, as my eyelids fall, “What kind of dream, will plot today?” Nonsensical events begin to tell, As figments of imagery take off. ✼ ✼ ✼ “The discourse and the harmony! The relentlessness and the tranquillity!” Who speaking before me, Do I present to be the greatest director. ✼ ✼ ✼ Rational events begin to show, As figments of imagery reflect. I loosen my eyes, as my joints move, “What kind of dream, will plot tomorrow?”
II. Lucid Dream
I believed I arose To relive a past. Only to discover My impeded vision. ✼ ✼ ✼ Though I was gifted This chance to relive, My actions repeat, Though consciously so.
III. Nightmare: The Waltzing Scherzo
In the back of my mind An itch always lingers. My perception dwindles, As the darkness swells. ✼ ✼ ✼ But a scherzo sneaks in And grabs four notes. It took my noggin And flipped it upside down! ✼ ✼ ✼ “Oh these notes, these notes! How long will it haunt me?” This constant barrage Has begun to befall me.
IV. Encore: The Scherzo’s Shenanigans
If it is warranted, If you did adeptly, Go ahead, give me a shot. Though I cannot promise, Much joy from this tune, After all my shenanigans.