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Instead of writing a long description, I would rather share with you a little poem, written in 1848 by Jacob Polonsky ( in English translation, the original below- in Russian) The poem that inspired Rachmaninoff later on to use the lyrics for one of his most enigmatic songs. The poem that in a few words captures both the spirit of the times and somber, brooding mood of Chopin late period works, like this Ballade.... “When Yesterday We Met.“ Jacob Polonsky When yesterday we met, her words and glances falter'd; In silence I, too, stood before her, speech evading O, heavens! How the passing years her looks had alter'd! Her eyes had lost their fire; her beauty fast was fading . . . A long while thus I stood, and watch'd her, dumbly, coldly . . . She offer'd me her hand; her smile was sad and yearning. I longed to break the spell of silence, speaking boldly. 'Twas heaven check'd my words! Then, quickly fro
