Emergence

"Emergence" reflects the concept of systems that merge, break down and reform. This concept is illustrated with allusions to biology, physics and human society. This basic theme runs throughout the piece in every section. It is also a theme that ties the whole work together. The beginning of the piece reflects formation with allusions to cells or molecules merging and dividing. The breakdown is represented by a foreign body invading cells such as a virus. The collapse is further depicted through explosive, random energy such as the spread of cancerous cells in a body or a society that no longer restrains itself. This energy burns itself out; what are left are broken, isolated pieces that attempt to reform and recreate connections. This fails but an underlying force of self-organization that is manifest throughout the piece (the ropes and pulleys) takes over, opening up new possibilities for new systems. The mood of piece varies throughout the work. At points it is slow and amorphous at other points explosive.