These notes are always the same, as the chorus gives them as a plaint, and they are both affecting and artistic.

At the end comes a dim ray of light and hope.

This is the only one in the work save the Amen at the end, for Faith and Hope should not be looked for here.

The supplications sound like prayers which do not expect to be answered.

No one would dare to describe this work as profane, but whether it is religious or not is a question.