Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: opera
Song Meaning of “Das Rheingold, WWV 86A / Scene 2: “Gepflanzt sind die Pfähle”” by Richard Wagner
This section of the opera ‘Das Rheingold’ by Richard Wagner is one of drama and anticipation, setting the scene for the unfolding story. The grand, powerful orchestral score reflects and accompanies the god Wotan’s grandiose task of setting the pilings to form walls of protection. As the gods work together to build the fortress, they are serving in defense of the Rhine gold,thus ensuring the powerful ring will stay safe and out of human hands.
The music serves as a reminder to all of the gods of the importance of their mission. With its resounding orchestral score, Wagner’s music conveys the immense grandeur of their labor and its importance to ensuring that the powerful ring remains safe and sound. Yet at the same time, the composition hints at the challenges to come—as the gods complete their construction, the dangers of their mission become ever greater.
The combination of its dramatic score and sweeping melodies create a powerful atmosphere of anticipation as the gods work together, in an effort to secure the future of their beloved Rhine. Wagner’s composition calls upon the audience to recognize the importance of their mission, that the gods are working collectively to prepare and protect the gold for what lies ahead- the great unknown.