The song: Eleanor Rigby by the Beatles (2:08) - Essay Example

Analysis of Eleanor Rigby The song Eleanor Rigby by the Beatles starts with a chorus instead of an introduction. The introand bridge of the song “Aah, look at all the lonely people” offers continuity with the songs chorus. The song is a perfect example of mode mixture between Dorian mode and the natural minor (Aeolian mode). The song is set on E-minor and based on EM-C chord progression. Due to the utilization of the Aeolian mode, the song utilizes the b3, b6, and b7 notes. The lead melody is derived from a lighter Dorian mode; this is a minor scale with a sharp sixth degree.

The song starts with the C-major harmony, “Aah, look at all”, and then shifts to an E-minor “lonely people” (Beatlesebooks.com).The beat of the song comprises of a string section consisting of two violas, four violins, and two cellos, the microphones are placed closer to the instruments to create that biting sound. All the instruments are used to raise and slow down the tempo, but overall, Eleanor Rigby has a medium level tempo. The song has a sad mood; this is based on the lyrics, the beat and the message being conveyed.

In the song, the domain of dynamics shows less variation (Beatlesebooks.com).It is only at the song’s conclusion that the persistent staccato notes raise in volume, for example; in the phrase “Father McKenzie”. Eleanor Rigby does not change the texture, it maintains the sad mood, and therefore, it uses homophonic song texture. The song’s tone is consistent with its mood, Eleanor Rigby’s hopeless and lonely life is depicted by the artist, and it invokes a sad feeling. The verse of this song is in strophic form since it is repeated throughout the song and also connects with all the verses.

It seems that the chorus is divided into two with the verses going deeper into the story, the song, therefore, starts and ends with the chorus. I like how the song starts with one part of the chorus, and later tells the story that is well connected. I am akin to the structure of the songs that leaves an avenue for further interpretation. For instance, how Eleanor Rigby dresses up for no one, or how Father McKenzie prepares a sermon that no one hears (Beatlesebooks.com). Works CitedBeatlesebooks.com,. Eleanor Rigby" by the Beatles.

The In-Depth Story behind the Songs of the Beatles. Recording History. Songwriting History. Song Structure And Style.. N.p., 2015. Web. 19 Feb. 2015.