This theme, which provides the melodic, textural, and rhythmic foundations of the work, is first heard pianissimo in the murky depths of the keyboard.
This section fades away, and, after a long and increasingly frenzied crescendo, the main theme returns in triumphant fortissimo octaves.
The second dance (Poco allegro) begins with a brief introductory passage, which sets the mood of the piece — a strange mix of humour and severity.
The main theme, based loosely on a Romanian jeering song, is presented three times in succession.
The remainder of the piece is a mishmash of cheerful motifs showing Balinese influence, sudden contrasts which range from amusing to disconcerting, and majestic passages in double octaves.