The character of this movement is distinctly different from the tension which pervades the majority of Bruckner scherzos. Moving at a leisurely pace, the first section has no theme per se, but rather a set of three motives whose interplay provides a thematic basis. True to form, the Scherzo proper returns to complete the movement. The finale begins with a mysterious tremolo of violas and smoothly flowing lines over the measured tread of the low strings. In a sudden blaze of sound, the French horns proclaim the heroic first theme.
Lyric contrast is achieved with a dulcet second theme in the violins.
The virtual absence of conflict is wholly consistent with artistic integrity. Since the opening movement advanced no conflict the Finale has none to resolve. Lacking the dramatic character of other Bruckner closing sections, it remains nevertheless a Finale conforming in essential respects to the accepted meaning of the term. Drawn together at last, as though by some mysterious inductive power, they become merged into the jubilant re-entry of the opening theme of the symphony. Copyright Roger Ruggeri, 2000.