This new arrangement focuses on the inherent drama of the text. Each verse expresses a different reaction to its question about the crucifixion.

The piano accompaniment, which plays a featured role in this music, varies with the mood of the lyrics, from simple chordal support at the beginning, to harsh rhythms (“nailed him to the cross”), to rapid “sunburst” patterns (“the sun refused to shine”), to sorrowful descending lines (“laid him in the tomb”). The choral expression is articulated in s...