Which work did Mahler compose?

Which work did Mahler compose?

• A. Das Lied von der Erde
• B. Short Ride in a Fast Machine
• C. Hermit Songs
• D. Porgy and Bess

Answer: (A)

Das Lied von der Erde is a late Mahler work that blends song and symphony into one huge, emotionally charged statement. It’s written for two vocal soloists with a full orchestra, marrying intimate song-like singing with expansive orchestral color and drama. The text, drawn from translations of ancient Chinese poetry compiled by Hans Bethge, gives Mahler space to explore deep themes like aging, longing, and the fleeting nature of life, moving from fragile lyricism to grand, sweeping moments. Among the options, this is the work by Mahler; the others are by different composers—Short Ride in a Fast Machine is John Adams, Hermit Songs is Samuel Barber, and Porgy and Bess is George Gershwin.