This piece truly embodies the essence of Modernist Prokofiev. While the characteristic rhythm and formal structure of the mazurka, with its emphasis on the second and third beats, are preserved, the melody and accompaniment, dominated by parallel fourths throughout, are far removed from the timbre of traditional dance music. Furthermore, although the overall texture undergoes little change, the musical ideas vary in fine detail, and the performance indications also vary, including 'animato,' 'tranquillo,' and 'brilliant.' The innovative sound of this piece seems to have caused controversy from its initial publication, with even the composer's close friend Asafyev condemning it as 'the folly of a pampered youth who flaunts audacity in defiance of the precepts of standard musical taste' (from Muzyka magazine, No. 209, 1915).

Dedicated to the composer Myaskovsky, a fellow student at the conservatory and a lifelong friend.