The Four Nocturnes were written after having a series of dreams.
- Pizzicato constellations are observed by the upward-looking horn. The star-gazing is occasionally complimented by showers of meteors.
- The form of a landscape is outlined between the two instruments.
- Various waterscapes - turbulent rivers, violent rapids and rushing waterfalls contrast dark, still lakes. Various creatures lurk beneath the surface of the waters.
- The horn plays a simple lullaby above the rocking harmonies of the cello. Gradually memories of the previous movement surface but quickly subside as the restless night turns to deeper sleep.