• A [a (measures 1-8) + a1 (measures 9-16)]
• B [b (measures 17-24) + c (measures 25-32) + b (measures 33-40)]

The main key is E minor, and the form is compound ternary. The piece is in ternary form, as indicated by the "Da Capo al Fine" instruction at measure 40, which leads back to the beginning, concluding at the "Fine" at measure 16.

The "con dolore" at the beginning signifies "with suffering" or "with pain." This suffering should be interpreted not as physical pain, but rather as an emotional state, akin to sorrow or grief.

The theme is characterized by a descending chromatic harmonic progression. As it descends, it modulates to G major, its relative major key. Dominant ninth chords and secondary dominant chords are employed, contributing to a beautiful harmonic color. Unlike section A, the middle section B features a somewhat more vigorous theme. This section B itself is in a three-part structure.