In 5/4 time, chords are placed within an octave and rapidly repeated, progressing with an ostinato. Similar to No. 14, the piano is treated percussively, exploring music with modern harmonies. The melody moves in contrary motion to the accompaniment, expressing a dark sentiment. The theme begins in the low register, and from measure 6, both hands play it an octave higher in the middle register, gradually moving to the high register. An ascending passage in unison builds tension, and at measure 16, the hands reverse roles and move in contrary motion. In the concluding section, an ascending melody reappears in the right hand, concluding in C major.