Chapter 28 of the Tao Te Ching discusses the concept of embracing paradoxical qualities within oneself to achieve harmony and enlightenment. It advises maintaining the balance between strength and flexibility, the masculine and the feminine, the external and the internal. By understanding and integrating these dual aspects, one becomes like the "valley of the world," embodying humility and receptiveness, which in Taoist thought is the source of true power and creativity. The chapter emphasizes the importance of returning to simplicity and the original state of being, suggesting that this balance is key to becoming a model for others and for the world.
Theme Introduction: Begin with a simple, clear melody that embodies purity and the original state of being. This could be introduced by the soprano line, with the alto, tenor, and bass providing a stable, harmonious foundation, suggesting the inherent balance and unity within duality.
Key and Harmony: Utilize a key that conveys a sense of tranquility and depth, such as E flat major, with harmonies that are full yet not overly complex, to underscore the theme of returning to simplicity and the essence of being.
Exploration of Duality: Through the voices, introduce contrasting musical elements that represent the paradoxical qualities discussed in the chapter—strength and flexibility, masculine and feminine, external and internal. This could be achieved through alternating between minor and major modes, or by incorporating counterpoint to highlight the interplay between these dual aspects.
Dynamic and Textural Contrast: Employ variations in dynamics from piano to forte and back, alongside textural contrasts between homophonic and polyphonic sections, to illustrate the dynamic balance between different forces and qualities within oneself.
Contemplative Passage: Shift to a more reflective section, perhaps with a modulation to a related key, to underscore the profound wisdom and creativity that arise from embracing and integrating duality. This section should feature a more introspective melody, with the voices moving together in close harmony, emphasizing the peace and unity that comes from this integration.
Harmonic Resolution: Use gentle, resolved dissonances and cadences to convey a sense of completeness and enlightenment, illustrating the return to simplicity and the original state of being.
Reprise and Integration: Return to the initial theme, now enriched with elements from the contemplative and contrasting sections, symbolizing the harmonious balance achieved through embracing duality. This reprise should offer a sense of closure and renewal, reflecting the chapter's message of becoming a model for the world by embodying humility and receptiveness.
Final Cadence: Conclude with a strong, peaceful cadence in the original key, leaving a feeling of serenity and profound wisdom, mirroring the Taoist belief in the power and creativity that come from balancing and integrating the full spectrum of one's nature.
This 4-part chorale setting for Chapter 28 of the Tao Te Ching would invite singers and listeners to explore the themes of duality, balance, and the return to simplicity. Through the thoughtful interplay of melodies, harmonies, and contrasts, the composition aims to capture the essence of the Taoist perspective on embracing and integrating the paradoxical qualities within oneself to achieve harmony and enlightenment, offering a musical reflection on the path to becoming a source of wisdom and guidance for others.