Text-heavy, narrative passages in opera are often sung in this style, which features speech-like melodies, rapid declamation on very few pitches, and is often accompanied only by the basso continuo:

What character trait emerges as a result of jing-mei’s conflict with her mother?

Why did bramante’s plans for the st. peter’s basilica never come to fruition? a. he and the pope could not agree on the plans. b. the pope changed his mind several times. c. the pope died and political unrest followed. d. bramante died before he could act on the plans.

Visual rhythm indicates movement and suggests unity of form by the repetition of elements.