This motive, composed of mm. 2-3 of the Prelude to Act I, is most
often referred to as the “Isolde” or "Desire" motive. Other
labels are given below.
Motive Labels
“Isolde
Motive” – (Kobbé, p, 110)
“Desire Motive” – (Lavignac,
p. 285)
“Zaubermotiv” or “Charm
Motive” – (Pfohl,
p. 214)
“Motive of Desire” or “Motive
of Magic” – (Newman,
in Bailey, p. 154)
“Love Motive” – (Hight,
p. 277)
“Yearning” – Note
that this title has been given to Motive 1 as well.
Desire – Order of occurrence by Act and Scene
Act I: Prelude, Scenes 1-5
Act II: Prelude, Scenes 1-3
Act III: Scenes 1-3
