This piece consists of a series of variations on the melody of "Ami, dans cette vie" ("Friend, in this life"), a French song from the 18th century. Like the famous poem "Canzona di Bacco" by Lorenzo de' Medici, this song invites the listener to enjoy life, friendship, love and wine while there is still time. The epicurean nature of this text contrasts with a deeply melancholic melody - a contradiction that is reflected in this work. After a somewhat turbulent first section, the original melody i...