Symphony No. 3 in C minor, The Divine Poem
Alexander Scriabin
Work background
Researched classical background
Scriabin's Third Symphony unfolds as an introduction and three connected movements, commonly translated as Struggles, Pleasures and Divine Play. Its programme concerns the spirit's movement toward freedom and self-affirmation. Recurring themes and a greatly expanded orchestra connect the sections, making this a stage in Scriabin's shift from conventional symphonic design toward more explicitly philosophical orchestral works.
Inspiration and creative background
The work's published philosophical programme describes the liberation and self-affirmation of the human spirit.
Brussels Philharmonic: Scriabin The Divine Poem
1902-04 composition and philosophical programme | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Listen for themes returning in altered orchestral colours across the connected movements.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Large orchestra
Composition: 1902-1904
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: Le Divin Poeme; The Divine Poem
Brussels Philharmonic: Scriabin The Divine Poem
1902-04 composition and philosophical programme | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Brussels Philharmonic: Scriabin The Divine Poem
1902-04 composition and philosophical programme | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Browse by year
1960-2025. Each year contains 150 selections.