Page "Hugo Wolf" Paragraph 17

Early in his career Wolf modelled his lieder after those of Franz Schubert and Robert Schumann, particularly in the period around his relationship with Vally Franck ; in fact, they were good enough imitations to pass off as the real thing, which he once attempted, though his cover was blown too soon.

It is speculated that his choice of lieder texts in the earlier years, largely dealing with sin and anguish, were partly influenced by his contraction of syphilis.

His love for Vally, not fully requited, inspired highly chromatic and philosophical lieder that could be regarded as successors to Wagner's Wesendonck Lieder cycle.

Others were as distant from those in mood as possible ; lighthearted and humorous.

The rarely heard symphonic poem Penthesilea is tempestuous and highly colored as well.

Although Wolf admired Liszt, who had encouraged him to complete the work, he felt Liszt's own music too dry and academic and strove for color and passion.