In the programme note at the premiere of the Enigma Variations, Edward Elgar laid down the gauntlet for music detectives: ‘The Enigma I will not explain – its “dark saying” must be left unguessed, and I warn you that the apparent connection between the Variations and the Theme is often of the slightest texture; further, through and over the whole set, another and larger theme “goes” but is not played.’ To this day the enigma remains ‘unsolved’. So what is the meaning of the Enigma by Elgar? Here are five of the most popular theories…
Enigma fan? Did you know that you can hear the Enigma Variations being performed at the 2024 BBC Proms? The BBC Symphony Orchestra will be playing this masterpiece as they close out Prom 53 (Fri 30 Aug).
What is the meaning of the Enigma by Elgar? Five theories
1. Auld Lang Syne
A long-time favourite of the counterpoint theorists, who feel the solution lies with a melody that can be played at the same time as Elgar’s original theme. It was first suggested by Dora Penny, but refuted by the composer.
2. The National Anthem
Another counterpoint solution, offered by Troyte Griffith. Again, Elgar dismissed it.
3. Mozart’s ‘Prague’ Symphony
Of those theories based on connectivity – themes that show a familial resemblance to Elgar’s own – the second movement of Mozart’s Symphony No. 38 'Prague' is often mooted.
4. Beethoven’s ‘Pathétique’ Sonata
Combining counterpoint and connectivism, another favourite is the central slow movement of Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 8, the ‘Pathétique’. This work opens with a theme that (when transposed into E flat) can initially be played alongside Elgar’s.
5. Pi (yes, you read that right: Pi)
Applying the decimal approximation of Pi (3.142) to the degrees of the scale, you get Elgar’s theme. And his love of puns is satisfied by the nursery rhyme quote ‘Four-and-twenty blackbirds baked in a pi(e),’ which gives you his ‘dark saying’..