Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Five Variants of Dives and Lazarus is a poignant and richly textured work for string orchestra and harp, composed in 1939. Drawing from the English folk melody “Dives and Lazarus,” which narrates the biblical parable of the rich man and the beggar, the piece transcends its origins as a simple folk tune to create an evocative tapestry of sound. Vaughan Williams, deeply influenced by the English pastoral tradition and folk music, presents five imaginative variations on the theme, each exploring different moods and timbres while maintaining the heart of the melody. The harp's delicate, bell-like textures complement the sweeping strings, imbuing the work with an ethereal quality.

The music unfolds with a sense of timelessness, reflecting Vaughan Williams’ mastery of harmony and orchestration. The variations range from the serene and introspective to the grand and majestic, showcasing the composer’s ability to evoke both intimate and expansive emotions. The use of modal harmonies and lush counterpoint captures the essence of English folk tradition while lending the piece a universality that resonates deeply with audiences. Five Variants of Dives and Lazarus stands as a testament to Vaughan Williams’ ability to bridge the pastoral with the profound, crafting a work that is both a tribute to his cultural heritage and a stirring expression of humanity’s shared emotional depths.